Reward charts are a tried and tested, economic and very successful way to help motivate and reward children for lots of different tasks. From doing homework, tidying up, cleaning teeth and helping with the washing up, they are fantastic for children of all ages to encourage positive behaviour and achievement.Below are a few ideas about how you can get the best out of your reward chart which will help children stay positive, focussed, and encourage them to keep up the good work:
- Use reward charts for clear goals.
Make it very clear what is expected of the child for them to be rewarded with a sticker, stamp or tick on the chart. Make sure that all adults who are responsible for giving a sticker know exactly when it can be given so there is no confusion for them or the child.
- Use reward charts for new activities.
Reward charts are a great way to help introduce new routines and activities to children, such as putting away their things, potty training and going to playgroup or starting school. The feeling of achievement for being rewarded with a sticker on their chart will help show that the new activity is positive, helping them to naturally adopt it and ease into something new.
- Use reward charts to encourage good behaviour.
Reward charts can be a very effective way to help encourage good behaviour. When writing what the chart is for, keep the focus positive. For example, the chart could be for "sharing and playing nicely" rather than "not fighting over toys". A sticker on the reward chart will give a really clear visual representation of how good they've been and motivate them to keep up the good behaviour.
- Give the sticker as soon as possible.
When a child has earned a sticker for their chart make sure it goes on as soon as possible. If it's given too late they might not associate it with better behaviour. If you can't give it immediately, when you do make sure you go over why it's being given to reinforce the positive action.
- Find your reward.
Before you start using the chart agree a little reward or treat to be awarded when the reward chart has been completed. This could be something like a trip to the park, watching a film with you, or choosing a favourite meal to have. Try to avoid too many material rewards such as toys, as this might lead to manipulative behaviour if done too often.
Remember, the best reward for good behaviour is positive attention and time spent with you.
Ruth Laws writes for http://www.thestickerfactory.co.uk/, who design and supply stickers and other motivation products that have been helping teachers, schools and parents and guardians successfully motivate and reward children for over 10 years.
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