Reinforcers

Working with autistic kids, we use many types of reinforcers, or rewards, for good behavior. I’ve used all sorts of different foods, foods that the each kid likes. I’ve seen kids work for chips, cookies, cucumbers, broccoli, and today — butter. This was not one of my kids, but I was working with a group when he suddenly shut down and didn’t respond. His therapist brought out a tub of butter and scooped out a spoonful. He became more alert and finally responded. As his reward, he got to eat the butter, straight. So nasty, I was about to puke during circle time. Apparently, he would do anything for butter. Sounds like a lot of guys I know.