Creating and Using a Token System with Your Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Using a token system is a great way to reward your child for engaging in behaviors that we want to see more often. A token system can be a sticker chart, have Velcro attachments, or even be hand-drawn. The idea is that the child engages in a wanted behavior or skill and they earn a certain number of tokens. Then once they earn all the tokens, they turn them in or trade them in for a “back-up reinforcer,” or the final prize or reward.

Token systems can be used in a variety of settings and situations and can be handy to bring with you when you are out in the community. In order to make and use an effective token system, there are a few key things you want to make sure to do. First, decide on the ratio of exchange. This means, determine how many tokens need to be earned to turn in for the large reward at the end. Then, decide on the backup reinforcer, which basically, is the prize that will be earned. Then create a visual so your child can see the tokens earned and how many they need to earn to turn in the tokens for the larger reinforcer.

Token systems can be adapted to children of all ages and ability levels. For younger children, a simple 5-token system can be useful. For older children, or for larger, long-term rewards, more tokens can be added. Your child must be made aware of what behaviors will earn them a token, and what the final reward will be. The reward should be something that motivates your child to perform the behavior, whether that’s something as simple as a piece of candy or a trip to the park, or more complicated, like the purchase of a desired item or being relieved of certain chores.

Token systems can continue to be longer and more elaborate and can evolve into ongoing behavior charts to be used over the course of a week or even longer. They can really help to focus in on improving wanted behaviors from your child.

We’ve created a sample reward chart you can use at home! Download it here or visit our resources page for more helpful tools.

Carrine Pilkington, M.S., BCBA, LMFT, LBA
Regional Clinical Director
Tuesday, April 6, 2021