Inside: How to create a classroom reward systems using positive reinforcement and natural consequences
When I taught special ed, I had an elaborate token economy system. Students earned and paid money based on their individual behavior goals. Every week, they used their money to shop for rewards.
Needless to say, when I switched to a self-contained classroom, this system was not manageable.
- Too many goals to keep track of
- Too much time to shop
- Too expensive
After trying everything under the sun, I concluded classroom management comes down to two things.
- A classroom reward system based on positive reinforcement
- Natural consequences when needed
Read on for all the specifics.
Table of Contents
Bonus: To encourage positive behavior from day one, be sure to grab my free Behavior Decision Cards at the end of this post!
1. Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement involves catching students doing what they are supposed to be doing and offering them a reward. The reward can be anything from a high five to a special privilege.
Why Use Positive Reinforcement?
Positive reinforcement has many benefits.
- Shows that positive behaviors lead to positive outcomes.
- Helps students understand that their positive behaviors are valued.
- Fosters a positive environment students to make student feel safe.
Examples of Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement can be very simple.
- Specific Verbal Praise
- High Five
- Fist Bump
- Happy Dance
But what about bigger behavior issues? We all moments where our go-to strategies don’t cut it.
More severe behaviors need behavior plans.
Behavior plans are great for setting and rewarding specific goals.
It’s in that spirit that I created behavior reward cards. These 40 cards include simple rewards that students can earn. The best part? 38/40 rewards are completely FREE! Even your toughest student can find something they want to earn.
But these cards work for everyone!
For part of my classroom management system, I have students earn them with table points. Tables are rewarded for making good decisions. Once a table earns 50 points, every student at that table earns a reward.
If your interested in checking out the reward cards for your classroom, click here or on the button below.
2. Natural Consequences
Natural consequences are consequences given immediately after an undesired behavior. They are linked to a child’s actions and are meant to help them learn from their experience.
Here’s a list of easy-to-implement natural consequences
| If a student… | Try this… |
|---|---|
| Writes on their desk | Have them wash all of the desks. |
| Fools around during work time | They should miss choice time or some other coveted time to complete the work. |
| Making a rude/mean comment | Write an apology letter |
| Goes to an unapproved website or abuses the privilege of technology in any way | The student loses access to technology for a designated amount of time. |
| Frequently or extremely disorganized and/or losing things. | The student misses choice time or some other coveted time to organize their area. |
| Goofing off and distracting others on the carpet. | Move to an assigned seat |
| Running or inappropriately walking in the hallway | Go back and walk correctly |
| Blurts out during share time | They are last to share |
| Most Small Behaviors | Acknowledge and praise other students who are behaving appropriately |
| Repeat and/or severe offense for any of the listed behaviors | Have students fill out a reflection sheet or contact parents for a meeting (involve student in the meeting if possible.) |
Remember: Make the consequence match the behavior as much as possible.
Gamechanger
Recognizing and rewarding positive behavior is a surefire way to increase confidence. Implementing natural consequences helps your students pause and reflect on their behavior. This will make them think twice the next time.
I do miss my token economy from my special ed days. However, learning how to integrate positive reinforcement and natural consequences changed everything!
Frontloading Positive Behavior
It’s always best to start reinforcing positive behavior from day one.
In order to help, I’d love to send you these FREE Behavior Situation Cards & Slides
Get everything you need to set your students up for success.
- 18 Behavior situation cards
- 18 Slides with situations and questions
- Suggestion for Use
These cards are also great for reviewing behavior expectations after holidays (or any time your students need a few reminders).
What are your go-to reinforcers? I’d love for you to share in the comments.
