The application of a consequence following a learner’s use of a response or skills that increases the likelihood that the learner will use the response/skills in the future.
Reinforcement is used to increase the likelihood of a desired behavior or a skill by offering the child a reward after the desired behavior is demonstrated. Reinforcement inventories will identify what rewards are most desirable by the child and the schedule of reinforcement should include timely delivery and eventually teaching the child to use intrinsic rewards over tangible, extrinsic rewards.