Step 1.10 Select the response interval

A response interval is the length of time to wait for the toddler to perform the skill or behavior before prompting the toddler to use the target skill. You should base the response interval on the individual characteristics of the toddler.

Generally a response interval is between 3 to 5 seconds.

The response interval is important because it builds in a short pause, allowing the toddler to process the cue and respond on their own to the specific prompt prior to the adult giving the toddler another prompt in the hierarchy. You will use this response interval at each prompting level.

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Answering the following questions will help determine the length of the response interval for the toddler:

  1. How long does it take the toddler to complete a similar skill?
  2. How long does it usually take the toddler to respond when he/she knows how to do the skill?  Add a couple of seconds to the usual response time.
  3. How long does it take another toddler with ASD to use a similar skill?
  4. What amount of time will the toddler be allowed to begin and complete an activity or routine? This would be important for a chained task or skill such as getting dressed, undressed, washing hands, etc. Some skills in the chain make take longer than the others.  In that case, use the longest interval as the response interval.