What is a token economy?
A token economy is a behavior modification technique that rewards desired behaviors with tokens, which can be exchanged for privileges or items. It’s a great way to encourage positive behavior in children.
How to implement a token economy:
- Define desired behaviors: Decide which behaviors you want to encourage. For example, completing chores, being polite with friends, or sharing toys.
- Choose tokens: Select tokens that are appealing to your child. These could be stickers, small toys, or even points on a chart.
- Establish a reward system: Determine how many tokens are needed to earn a reward. The reward could be a trip to the park, a favorite snack, or extra screen time.
- Be consistent: It’s important to consistently reward desired behaviors and to be clear about what it will take to earn the individualized preferred consequence.
- Track progress: Use a chart (see picture in the example below) or a reward system app to keep track of your child’s progress. This can help them visualize their achievements.
Example:
- Desired behavior: Completing chores
- Tokens: Stars
- Reward: extra marker time
- Reward system: 5 stars = 5 extra minutes playing with markers
Tips:
- Make it fun: Use creative and engaging ways to present the token economy. Your language and delivery matters!
- Be patient: It may take time for your child to adjust to the new system.
- Start out with small number of tokens to earn the reward: When first starting out set the system up so tokens and final rewards are earned quickly. Give the token right after the desired behavior occurs. You can start with 1-5 stars to get the item, then gradually progress so that it takes more stars like 10 or 20 to get the preferred activity or item. They will soon realize how great the tokens are and that tokens will get them what they want.
- Involve your child: Let your child help choose the rewards and track their progress.
- Avoid over-rewarding: Make sure rewards are meaningful and not excessive.
By implementing a token economy, you can effectively encourage positive behavior in your child while building a strong relationship.