As a middle-school speech and language pathologist, I have heard and read discussions and posts about rewards for students. In my speech classroom, you won’t find sticker charts or prize boxes. My students do not receive reinforcers for attending speech. I haven’t used them or felt the need for them.

In my speech room, you will find granola bars, fruit snacks, gum, crackers, and other snacks. If a student is hungry or unregulated, they won’t be able to learn. I will also have plastic cups so they can get a cup of water. We all know that we have to meet basic needs before students can learn.

I also keep a supply of mechanical pencils, post-it notes, Kleenex mini-packs, index cards, Band-aids, and loose-leaf paper, Colored loose-leaf paper is especially popular. Students can have these supplies any time they need them. I have seen too many students try to use 2-inch pencil stubs to write. I have found that students are appreciative and don’t take advantage of this system. This is especially true later in the school year when they run out of
supplies. This is what has worked for me, and I hope it works for you.