How to Use Rewards to Encourage Positive Behavior

In a perfect world, your child would behave appropriately because it's the right thing to do; however, in the real world, that is not always the way it works. A reward system provides a win-win for everybody involved, as it gives you options other than punishment, and your child takes pride in achieving goals. The world is based on a reward system. Paychecks, good grades and Olympic medals all provide rewards for a job well done. Rewarding your child for positive behavior helps him learn that what he achieves in life is within his control.
.

Instructions

    • 1

      Target the desired behavior. A blanket statement, such as "Behave this afternoon," does not give your child a direction to follow. Target specific goals, such as sharing toys, speaking kindly or getting ready for bed on time.

    • 2

      Discuss your expectations with your child. Spend a minute explaining why the positive behavior is important. For example: "When you get ready for bed without arguing, it gives us more time to spend together in the evening." Let her know you appreciate her getting her pajamas on and brushing her teeth the first time you ask instead of making you ask her several times a night.

    • 3

      Give your child advance notice. Children often object to sudden changes in what they are doing. Let him know the time for the positive behavior is approaching. For example: "In about 10 minutes, it will be time to get ready for bed. Then we can spend some time together before bedtime."

    • 4

      Ask once. Nagging or repeated requests for positive behavior is counterproductive. Make sure you have your child's attention, ask her to get ready for bed and then go about your business.

    • 5

      Follow through. When your child gets ready for bed without arguing or stalling, be sure to notice out loud and to spend some fun quality time with him before bed. Let him pick a favorite book to have read, spend time talking about his day, work on an art project together -- what you do doesn't matter as much as the fact you are spending time together immediately after he got ready for bed. This instills the lesson that positive behavior gets a reward.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • How to Help a Shy Child
      Watching your child awkwardly navigate simple social situations can be painful for a parent. Parents can take an active role in helping their child become more social and self confident. Things Youll Need Constant Awareness of Child and Aware
    • When a child is hit with an object that abuse?
      I understand youre asking about a serious and sensitive topic. Its important to remember that hitting a child is never acceptable and is considered child abuse. If you are concerned about a childs safety, please reach out to a trusted adult or a prof
    • How to Set up House Rules for a 3-year-old
      Three-year-olds know how to follow directions and communicate, so its an appropriate age to set up some house rules. Rules must be simple and straightforward so your preschooler doesnt get confused or misunderstand your expectations. The goal is to e