How can I deduct tokens as a punishment?

While ScreenCoach focuses on positive reinforcement through earning tokens for completing activities, you can also discourage unwanted behaviour through a punishment system.

Here are two ways to deduct tokens:

1.  Create a "Penalty" Activity:

• Set up a negative activity, like "Red Card", "Yellow Card" or "Penalty Card."
• Assign a negative token value and a negative Gem value to this activity.
• When your child exhibits undesired behaviour, add the "penalty" activity and assign it to them.
• This will deduct the designated number of tokens and Gems from their balance.

2. Manually Adjust Token Balance:

• Locate the child's user card in the main dashboard and tap it
• Tap on the green token icon at the top right (it is inside a white box, together with the gem and the piggy bank)
• Tap the circle with the three vertical dots at the bottom right
• Choose "Withdraw" from the pop-up menu
• Use the "+" button to the right of the token icon to decide how many tokens to withdraw
• Tap "withdraw" at the bottom

Choosing the Right Method:

Using dedicated penalty activities allows for a more clear association between the behaviour and the punishment.

Manually adjusting the balance offers more flexibility but might not provide a clear reason for the deduction.

The goal is to encourage positive behaviour through a balanced system of rewards and punishments.

Focus on clear communication with your child when implementing punishments.

Updated on: 03/06/2026