What makes something a reinforcer
A reinforcer is whatever makes the child more likely to repeat the behavior it follows. A child may like a toy and still not find it motivating enough for a hard task. What works today may lose its effect in two weeks because the child has had enough of it.
That is why a reinforcer list needs regular review, not a single entry in the child's file.
Test before you rely on it
Preference assessments compare possible reinforcers to find which one the child actually picks when offered a choice. A test result is more reliable than a therapist's impression or a parent's description, although both are good starting points.
The break schedule
Some children work with focus for ten trials before performance drops. Others need a short break after a few minutes. Setting this in advance avoids reaching the breaking point and makes the session predictable for the child.
A good schedule sets two things: the number of trials or minutes before each break, and how long the break lasts. It is printed or displayed where any therapist entering the session can see it.
Make it the whole team's knowledge
When reinforcers and breaks live in one therapist's memory, the child pays for every absence. Write them in the child's file, keep them current, and put them in front of whoever works with the child.
How this works in Enable 360
Each child has a reinforcer list in the system, with three tests to choose the best one. The break schedule sets the trials and minutes between breaks and can be printed to stay in the session room.
See the systemFrequently asked questions
How often should the reinforcer list be updated?
There is no fixed number. Review it when the child's motivation drops, or after any big change in their routine.
Is a break a reward?
No. It is part of how the session is organized, set in advance and not tied to the child's performance in the moment.
Can the break schedule be printed from Enable 360?
Yes, the schedule is printable.
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