⚡ Quick start presets
👦 Name & task
🎁 Reward
🔢 How many tokens?
the reward
⭐ Token style
What is a token board?
A token board is a visual reward system where a child earns tokens — stars, stickers, or symbols — for completing tasks or demonstrating positive behaviours, and exchanges a set number of tokens for a chosen reward. It is rooted in applied behaviour analysis and positive reinforcement principles, and is widely used with autistic and ADHD children because it makes abstract rewards concrete and immediate. Instead of "be good all day and you can have screen time tonight", the child can see exactly how many tokens they have, how many they need, and how close they are to their reward.
Why token boards work for ADHD and autistic children
ADHD brains are significantly more motivated by immediate rewards than delayed ones — a known feature of how the ADHD dopamine system works. A token board shortens the gap between effort and reward to something the brain can hold onto. For autistic children, the visual clarity of a token board — this many tokens for this reward, earned by doing this task — removes ambiguity and makes the reward system predictable and fair. Both groups benefit enormously from being able to see their progress rather than having to trust a verbal promise.
How to use this tool
Set the number of tokens needed, choose a reward with the child, and award tokens as tasks are completed. When the board is full the child claims their reward and the board resets. Keep the reward meaningful to the child — it does not need to be expensive or elaborate, just something they genuinely want. Start with a small number of tokens so early successes build confidence and motivation before you increase the challenge.
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