Behavior Breakthrough: Simple ABA Strategies That Make a Big Impact at Home and in the Classroom

Understanding the First/Then Strategy (Premack Principle)

One of the core ABA strategies discussed in the book is the First/Then Contingency, also known as the Premack Principle. This principle is simple but powerful: the child completes a less-preferred task (first), and then gets access to something more enjoyable (then).

Real-Life Example: Play-Doh Motivation

Imagine your child comes up and says, “I want to play with Play-Doh.” Rather than immediately granting the request, you might say:

“Sure! First clean up the blocks, then we can play with Play-Doh.”

This teaches responsibility, promotes follow-through, and keeps motivation high—all while avoiding conflict.

Common Pitfalls of First/Then

Both Bailey and I have seen this strategy go wrong when:

• The “first” task is too big or unclear.

• The child has no interest in the “then” activity.

• It’s used too rigidly or without flexibility.

For example, expecting a child who struggles with brushing teeth to complete the full routine before accessing a reward might be too much at first. A better approach might be:

“First walk to the bathroom, then I’ll turn on your favorite song.”

This gradual shaping of behavior builds trust and success over time.

Bribery vs. Reinforcement: Why Timing Matters

One of the most misunderstood concepts in behavior change is the difference between bribery and reinforcement. Bailey devotes an entire chapter to this—and it aligns closely with what I teach in Turn Autism Around.

Bribery is Reactive and Reinforces the Wrong Behavior

Bribery happens after problem behavior has already started and is offered to make it stop.

Example:

Your child is crying and whining in the grocery checkout. In desperation, you say:

“If you stop crying, I’ll buy you a candy bar.”

This reactive approach teaches the child that whining or crying is an effective way to get what they want. You’ve now increased the likelihood of this behavior happening again.

Reinforcement is Proactive and Builds Positive Behavior

Reinforcement, on the other hand, is planned. It rewards appropriate behavior and encourages it to happen more often.

Example:

Before entering the store, you say:

“If you stay calm and use your words, you can choose a snack at checkout.”

This shifts the control back to the adult, teaches self-regulation, and strengthens positive behavior.

Another Real-Life Example: Max at the Grocery Store

During the interview, I shared a story about a child I worked with named Max. At one point, after years of therapy, he looked at me and said, “How come every time you’re not here, I get what I want, and every time you are, I can’t have it?”

He had learned the difference between bribery and reinforcement—because when I was present, rewards were tied to appropriate behavior, not meltdowns. It was a funny moment, but also a perfect example of how quickly kids pick up on behavior patterns.

The Power of Positivity and Prevention

Bailey’s core message throughout her book is clear: What we attend to, we get more of. If we focus on praising and reinforcing the behaviors we want to see—like calm voices, following instructions, or trying something hard—those behaviors grow.

She encourages parents and professionals to:

• Use descriptive praise.

• Set clear expectations.

• Plan reinforcement in advance.

• Break tasks down into smaller, achievable steps.

Everyday Behavior Tools That Make Life Easier

From tackling toothbrushing struggles to managing transitions, Bailey’s book is filled with practical strategies that don’t require a PhD in behavior science. These tools can help:

• Neurodivergent children with autism, ADHD, or speech delays

• Neurotypical kids who need structure and consistency

• Parents and teachers who want a calmer, more cooperative environment