The target stimulus is the event or situation that cues the toddler to engage in the target behavior or target skill.

Target stimulus

Naturally occurring event

• If the target behavior is washing hands, then the target stimulus is having dirty hands or telling the toddler, “It is time for snack.”
• If the target behavior is waving "bye-bye," then the target stimulus would be a parent waving "bye-bye" to leave for work.

Completion of one event or activity

• If the target behavior is cleaning up after snack or a meal, then the target stimulus is completing the snack or meal.

External signal

• If the target behavior is coming to the table for a snack, then the target stimulus is opening the refrigerator.
• If the target behavior is getting ready to take a bath, then the target stimulus is turning on the faucet and running the water in the tub.