43. Breaks vs Rewards

Listen to this podcast to learn everything there is to know about using breaks and rewards in the classroom.

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, we dive into the key differences between breaks and rewards and how they can both play a critical role in managing classroom behaviors. For many students, especially those with autism, understanding when to use breaks and when to offer rewards can be a game-changer in maintaining a calm, productive learning environment.

We’ll explore how breaks serve as an essential tool for preventing meltdowns by allowing students to regulate their emotions, and how rewards help reinforce positive behaviors, motivating students to keep moving forward. You’ll learn why both strategies are important and how they can be used in tandem to support students’ individual needs.

Plus, we’ll give practical tips for balancing these approaches in real-life classroom scenarios, helping teachers create a structured, supportive environment that encourages positive behavior and self-regulation. Whether you’re a teacher or a parent, this episode will provide insights and actionable strategies to help you manage behaviors more effectively.

Resources Mentioned

• Token boards
• Behavior contracts

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