Step 2.2 Respond to the toddler based on the toddler's use of the skill or behavior
Respond using one of the following choices depending on the toddler's use of the skill or behavior:
a. If the toddler uses the skill/behavior, remove the negative reinforcer immediately.
b. If the toddler does not engage in the skill/behavior repeat your planned instruction.
If the toddler continues to not respond, reconsider your planned instruction. Instruction should include a control prompt. A control prompt is the most intrusive prompt, which will guarantee that the toddler engages in the skill/behavior If the toddler doesn’t engage in the skill or behavior, the chosen control prompt needs to be changed to one that will ensure the toddler’s response.
Video: Using Negative Reinforcement
In this video, the provider uses the mild aversive of holding her hand over the popup toy as a negative reinforcer. As soon as the child asks for her to move her hand by saying “please,” the aversive is removed.
c. Negative reinforcement is often used to teach the toddler skills or behaviors to replace interfering behavior.
Extinction is an evidence-based practice often used during the implementation of negative reinforcement when the toddler engages in interfering behavior.
When using extinction, ignore the interfering behavior while prompting the toddler to use the target skill/behavior. Extinction should not be used if the challenging behavior is dangerous to the toddler or others.
