What are Some Reinforcer Suggestions?

Come take a listen to episode 20 of Teach Task Box Inspire, where we talk reinforcement strategies. Let's talk various types of reinforcers tailored to the unique needs of our students with disabilities. Starting with edibles and chatting about the importance of sensory items, tangible items, and technology.

The options are endless ranging from therapy balls and light-up gloves to action figures and digital device time. We will discuss how to set those limits, particularly with technology in school. Reinforcement plays a powerful impact in creating a positive learning experience for students with special needs. Come take a listen!

Episode Highlights:

• Diverse Edible Options: Lisa Hollady highlights a range of edible options as secondary reinforcers for students with severe disabilities. From crackers and pieces of fruit to small candies like Skittles and M & M's, she emphasizes the importance of transitioning to secondary reinforcers while acknowledging the unique needs of each student.
• Sensory-Rich Reinforcers: The episode explores sensory items catered to children with autism spectrum disorders who seek sensory input. From spinning lights and therapy balls to bear hugs and light-up gloves, the emphasis is on providing powerful and engaging sensory experiences for positive reinforcement.
• Tangible Items Aligned with Preferences: Lisa discusses the combination of strong preferences for favorite television characters with tangible items, making them potent reinforcers. The list includes sound books, action figures, cars & trucks, puzzles, cards, and fidgets, recognizing the significance of personal preferences in reinforcing positive behavior.
• Balanced Technology Use: The episode underscores the appeal of technology as a powerful reinforcer for children with disabilities. Lisa highlights the importance of limiting technology use, particularly in school settings, and provides examples such as computer time, tablet time, cell phone use, and iPod use, offering a balanced approach to incorporating technology in the learning environment.

Resources Mentioned:

• Editable Organizing container
• Sensory Items:
  • Spinning lights or vibrating pens
  • Therapy ball
  • Light-up gloves
• Tangible Items:
  • Fidgets
• Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom

Connect with Me:

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More About Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast:

Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast is your go-to educational podcast dedicated to making your job as a special education teacher easier and more enjoyable. Your host, Lisa Hollady, is a veteran special education teacher with a passion for helping teachers like you make a real difference in the lives of your students.

In your demanding roles, you’re constantly juggling various responsibilities, from differentiated instruction and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to data collection, and, of course, teaching. That’s where task boxes come in.

Task boxes aren’t just teaching tools. They’re the key to unlocking student independence, student engagement, and personalized learning. Through this podcast, you’ll uncover the incredible task box benefits for your special needs students and practical implementation tips that you can take to your classroom.

Tune in each Monday for a new episode that will equip you with essential strategies and motivation to approach your week with confidence and enthusiasm. Topics will include task box activities, social and emotional development, adaptive teaching, inclusive teaching, supporting diverse learners, classroom management, scheduling, visual aids, and more.

If you’re looking for more special education resources and support with increasing student independence, check out Lisa's FREE training.