When considering ways to reinforce students, it is important to develop relationships with students and gather their input on what will actually be rewarding to them. Reward systems should be simple, clear, explicitly taught and consistent.

DITCH THE CLIP! Why Clip Charts Are Not a PBIS Practice and What to Do Instead

In the past, when we talked about reinforcement, it was common for educators to implement clip charts, sticker boards, or pocket charts that were displayed in a central location of the classroom. All students were listed on the chart and behaviors were publicly tracked. New research has found these systems are ineffective in changing negative behaviors. By focusing on public corrections, these types of systems contribute to labeling and stigmatization. This intensifies anxious behaviors and decreases engagement. It also provides class-wide attention to the unwanted behavior which leads to shame and embarrassment.