Reward System

Camphill Wakefield have developed a reward system that can be used with learners.

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Introduce the approach or activity

The Reward Chart was developed to enable a non-verbal, high functioning learner a chance to understand the structure of their day through a schedule that incorporated rewards.

The Reward Chart has 3 pages, a now, next and then board, a reward chart for the day and a set of sample images that enable the learner to understand how they did.

This system has been used in a number of ways.

  1. Print a number of the now, next and then boards and write key words on them.
  2. Pre-prepare using a computer a set of now, next and then boards for the day and print them off.
  3. Laminate the now, next and then board, a set of symbols or pictures that can be stuck on using Velcro. This makes the board reusable.
  4. Laminate the now next and then board and write on it using a whiteboard marker and wipe when finished.

We have laminated the reward chart and pictures and use a Velcro system to add pictures as they day goes on. At the end of the day you can take a photo of the completed board for records and reuse the board and symbols the next day.

Alternatively you could use a paper version with smiley/sad faces and stars.

The system is introduced, updated and recorded in 1:1 situations with a support worker who ensures that student understands what they are being asked to do and understand the results on the reward chart.

Top tips and key considerations

This tool can be personalised with the learner’s name and picture. You will need to work with them to ensure that they understand the symbols or pictures used to indicate feeling happy/good and feeling unhappy/bad. This was designed for a learner who can read words, but it could evolve to use more pictures and symbols.

Behaviours are made clear for both happy/goo and sad/bad, so again personalise to suit individual need.

Identify the rewards that work for the individual (in this case it is biscuits, story and drawing), this is effective in getting the individual to engage with the chart.

What resources are required?

Computer and printer

Time to personalise the reward chart (may need to work with individual parents to personalise the chart and then send on to them).

Scissors

Glue

How will you capture evidence of learning?

Recording the reward charts of over time to show how progress through acceptance and engagement with activities.