The Power of Positive Reinforcement

One of the most effective ABA strategies for reducing maladaptive behaviors is positive reinforcement. This means rewarding a child for engaging in desired behaviors so those behaviors happen more often.

How it Works

For instance, if a child uses calm words instead of yelling, you might say, “I love how you used your words — great job!” and follow up with a small reward or extra playtime.

Key Tips for Parents

• Meaningful Rewards: It’s important that rewards are meaningful to the child — what’s motivating for one child might not be for another.
• Timing is Everything: Reinforce immediately after the behavior to help your child make the connection.

Over time, natural reinforcers — like praise or success in daily life — take over, and tangible rewards can fade out.