Children’s behavior can be unpredictable. As your kid continues to grow, they may begin to test their limits. It’s a good idea to have a system in place to encourage appropriate behavior. A positive reward system, like a sticker chart, can be a helpful parenting tool.
When to Use a Reward System
This method helps children learn acceptable behavior through tangible results. It can be a useful tool when trying to change your child’s actions quickly.
Consider using a reward system in the following situations to motivate your children to:
- Learn new behaviors, such as potty training.
- Limit unwanted behaviors, such as talking back.
- Have proper hygiene, like brushing their teeth.
- Complete chores, like cleaning their room.
Why a Reward System Is Effective
- Reinforces Positive Behavior
A reward system is a great way to influence your child’s actions and help positive traits stick with them. If a child is validated after they perform a specific behavior, they learn to repeat it. This is a type of operant conditioning method studied by psychologist B.F Skinner.
Make sure to reward your child right after their good behavior for the most effective results. Here are some of the different reinforcers you can provide your child:
- Natural: These result directly from certain behaviors. For example, if your child gets a good grade on a test after studying hard.
- Tokens: They can be exchanged for something of value later on. One example is a system using stickers that a child can turn in for prizes.
- Social: This is when you give your child verbal praise by saying things like,
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