Struggling with Challenging Behaviors? Discover the Power of Punch Cards! Using Autism Reward Behaviors

A Positive Solution Autism Behavioral Reward Punch Cards

We all know that dealing with challenging behaviors like hitting, biting, and screaming can be incredibly frustrating. It's hard not to get bogged down by the negativity, constantly reminding ourselves that there must be a better way. In the journey of parenting and teaching, however, I have discovered over and over again that often the most effective solutions are the ones grounded in positivity and encouragement.

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to addressing challenging behaviors, having a variety of tools in your toolbox is invaluable. The punch card method is one such tool, among many, that can make a significant difference.

Why Focus on the Positive?

Before we delve into the punch card strategy, it’s important to remember why focusing on positive behaviors is so important. Kids, especially those displaying challenging behaviors, often crave attention. Many children who exhibit challenging behaviors often receive the least positive attention, yet, like all individuals, they still crave acknowledgment. By emphasizing positive actions, we shift our focus from the negative to the affirmative, reinforcing good behavior and encouraging children to make better choices.

Additionally, it's crucial to recognize that some children resort to negative behaviors because they lack essential pre-social skills, such as following directions, or initiating social interactions. For these children, the punch card strategy serves as more than just a disciplinary method; it becomes a pathway to teaching essential positive behaviors they can develop. By emphasizing the affirmative, we not only redirect their attention but also provide them with constructive avenues to express themselves.

When children realize that their kindness, sharing, or helpfulness is noticed and appreciated, they are more likely to repeat these behaviors. It's about creating a cycle of positivity where good actions are celebrated, leading to increased self-worth and, in turn, more positive behaviors.

In the next section, we'll explore some practical ways to implement the reward punch card strategy. Whether you're a parent or a teacher, these tips will help you integrate this method into your routine, hopefully decreasing frustration for everyone.

Creating Your Punch Cards

Creating punch cards is as easy as it gets. You can make them at home using cardstock or even plain paper. If you use paper, you may want to laminate to make them more durable. The only important thing is to make certain there are a designated number of spots for the hole punch, whether it is small circles, numbers, or cute pictures. For those of you short on time, Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) offers pre-designed punch cards that can be printed off and laminated to use. These are just some of the punch cards that are available in my store for purchase. https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Outer-Space-Themed-Reward-Punch-Cards-Hole-Punch-Card-for-Behavior-Management-10326455

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Clean-Up-Reward-Punch-Cards-Hole-Punch-Card-for-Behavior-Management-10321333 https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Making-Calm-Choices-Reward-Punch-Cards-10169825

Targeted Behaviors

Decide on the behaviors you want to target. It could be something specific like sharing toys, using polite language, or cleaning up after playtime. Tailor the behaviors to the individual child's needs. The key is to start small and celebrate every achievement.

Considering the unique interests of the child can make a world of difference if they are reluctant. If a child is passionate about trains, incorporating train-themed images or stickers can instantly capture their attention and motivation.

I like to include a visual representation of the target behavior on the card. Visual reminders offer a concrete representation of the desired action, making it easier for these students to understand and remember.

Using Punch Cards Effectively

Clearly Define Goals: Sit down with your child and explain the goals. Make sure they understand what behavior is expected and why it's important. If at all possible, make the goal very specific, such as “stay seated” rather than “be good at circle time” and try to limit to one goal until the child is easily able to attain the goal.

Punch It Out: Every time the desired behavior is exhibited, punch a hole in the card. This visual representation of progress is incredibly motivating. If you do not have a hole punch, you can use small stickers or just put an initial or a stamp on each spot. You can also purchase hole punches that cut out cute shapes for additional fun.

Decrease Reinforcement: Initially if the skill is difficult for the child make certain that they only have to complete a small number of punches before receiving a reward. Gradually fade this so they are earning more punches for a reward. For instance, initially having a child receive a reward after taking turns 3 times and then moving to 10, then eventually to 20 punches before removing the card altogether.

Rewards: Punch cards, or any other method are only as good as the rewards that they represent. The card will NOT work by itself. Let the child have input into what they would like to earn for a reward. If they have difficulty you can give them a choice between 2 or 3 things. If they are non-verbal consider letting them choose from a selection of pictures. Just make sure you do not overwhelm them with too many possibilities. When you have selected a reward you can put it in a spot the child can see it, such as up on a high shelf if this works to help motivate them. Keep in mind that some children become to fixated on the item and it may be a distraction. If it is an activity you can write or draw a picture of the activity on the card itself.

Think Outside the Box When you are thinking of rewards or reinforcers try to think creatively.

Most rewards work best when they are novel and not available at other times. If a child gets juice for snack every day, then earning juice for a reward may not work for them. Similarly, if jumping on the trampoline for 5 minutes was an excellent reinforcer but after earning it 7 times, the child is no longer excited, it may be that they need something new.

Think of what the child constantly seeks out. Do they love anything numbers or letters? Are they crazy about anything that spins. It is often worth purchasing something if you will be able to set it aside and only use it as a special treat.

Another fun idea is to purchase scratch stickers that have a reward underneath. These are fairly inexpensive to purchase through Amazon and add a fun surprise element... for you and the child!

Think Social Really get into your child’s head and think of what they would enjoy. For some children a sticker is a reward but for another child it may just be a reminder of art projects. Some students will do anything for a bit of candy, while another student constantly craves fun sensory breaks, such as time with slime or an extra trip to the playground or swing. I always try to consider any reward that could lead to positive social interactions if at all possible, such as visiting someone they enjoy or playing a video game with someone that doesn’t usually play video games. Remember though, it is only a reinforcer if the child really wants what it!

Make it accessible: The punch card also will only work if it is always available when the behavior is observed. Consider taping it to the desk or table, tacking it the wall of the work area, or attaching the punch card to a lanyard that you or the child can wear. If you attach it to a lanyard, you can use it as a visual prompt to show the child at appropriate times.

Celebrate Progress: Celebrate even the small victories and don’t forget to pair each punch with a smile, pat on the shoulder, or another small act to let them know how pleased you are with their efforts. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in reinforcing positive behaviors.

The Magic of Punch Cards

Punch cards work wonders because they provide a tangible, trackable way for children to see their progress. Children can look at the card and instantly understand how much they need to do of something before they receive a reward. As they watch the holes accumulate, they feel a sense of accomplishment, boosting their self-esteem and motivating them to continue their good behavior.

Remember, parenting and teaching are journeys, and every child is different. What works for one may not work for another. Be patient, stay consistent, and most importantly, celebrate the victories, no matter how small they may seem.

I encourage you to give reward punch cards a try in managing challenging behaviors. This simple tool can make a difference in fostering positive behavior in children. If you're looking for ready-made punch card templates, you can find a variety of options in my Teachers Pay Teachers store. https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Rainbow-Autism-Resources