Using Tokens for Success

Many children struggle to complete tasks that feel long, difficult, or unfamiliar. One effective strategy used in speech therapy and at home is called a token economy. While the name sounds technical, the idea is actually very simple. A token economy helps children see their progress and understand how much effort is needed before they earn a reward.

Think about being on a treadmill. Running feels much easier when you can see how much time you have left. If the screen says you have two minutes to go, it’s much more manageable than running without knowing when it will end. Time can be an abstract concept for kids. Waiting "5 more minutes" may not be very meaningful but if we use visuals that are easy to understand, kids have a better idea of what it coming up next. Token economy can provide this visual representation.

Tokens show children:

• How much work is expected

• How much they’ve already done

• How close they are to being finished

This makes tasks feel predictable and achievable.

What Is a Token Economy?

A token economy uses tokens (such as stickers, stars, checkmarks, or coins) that a child earns for effort or participation. After earning a certain number of tokens, the child exchanges them for a reward.

The tokens themselves are not the reward — they are a visual reminder of progress.

Why Token Economies Are Helpful

Token systems can:

• Increase motivation

• Reduce frustration

• Help children stay focused

• Support task completion

• Make expectations clear

For many children, especially those who struggle with attention, regulation, or motivation, seeing progress makes a big difference.

How to Use a Token Economy at Home or in Therapy

1. Choose a small, clear goal - Decide how many tokens are needed before the task is finished (for example, 3–5 tokens).

2. Pick simple tokens - Use something easy and visual — stickers, coins

3. Decide what earns a token - Be clear about what behaviour or effort earns a token (e.g., trying a sound, completing a worksheet, staying seated).

4. Pair tokens with a reward - Once all tokens are earned, the child gets the reward (a game, screen time, snack, or break).

5. Keep it positive - Tokens should be earned for effort, not taken away for mistakes.