I was looking out for an appropriate, simple-to-use and zero cost reward system for my then 2-year-old and 3-year-old. As they say, we make honey using honey, therefore my objective was to reinforce good behaviour by rewarding it rather than by punishing bad behaviour.
I stumbled upon a reward system of a ladder concept that has worked great since. Every good deed earns one step up the ladder. These include sharing, helping with simple chores, finishing your food, clearing the table, using courtesy words (please and thank you), using potty, not fussing at bedtime, using the car seat, cooperating at Sunday School and during visits, etc – depending on the season they are in and what they are learning at that time. Extraordinary deeds can earn up to three steps up. Only when we must, and if there is no other way (click here to read on effective ways to deal with bad behaviour), we use the ladder to punish bad behaviour, where a very bad deed will result in a step down the ladder.
For best results, it is critical that all the care-givers (mom, dad, nanny or anyone else) understand the rules of the reward system, use it consistently and reward promptly. Sign up for our Reward System Starter Kit to get a guide for setting up a reward system that works.
Do you have a reward system? Please comment and share your experience with us!
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