Which technique involves gradually reducing prompts as skills are learned?

• A. Fading
• B. Generalization
• C. Chaining
• D. Reinforcement schedules

Answer: (A)

Gradually reducing prompts as skills are learned is fading. In pediatric OT practice, you start with supportive prompts (like physical guidance or clear verbal cues) and steadily withdraw them as the child demonstrates mastery, guiding them toward independent performance while keeping accuracy. The goal is for the skill to be carried out with minimal assistance in everyday activities. Generalization involves applying a learned skill across different settings and contexts, rather than how prompts are managed. Chaining focuses on linking steps into a sequence, and reinforcement schedules refer to how often rewards are given, not to prompt fading.