Posted on June 3, 2008 in latest news
A child likes to be appreciated for what he or she does. The effort put in to achieve a particular task needs to be taken note of. Rewarding a child for his or her positive action, improves the confidence levels of the child. Parents often approve or disapprove the behavior of their child. In case of approval they prefer to reward it. It is essential to reinforce a “good” behavior.
A child when rewarded performs better and tries to improve himself or herself. It motivates him or her to behave according to the wishes of the parents. Parents can mold the behavior of the child by rewarding him or her for behaving in the manner they consider best socially. Obviously, rewarding is very essential to boost up the morale of the child. Why and how to reward?
Why to Reward a Child?
- It is a sign of appreciation
- A child’s behavior has been approved by parents
- It builds self-confidence in the child. His or her actions are considered to be beneficial to those around
- It is a way of changing the behavior of the child
- It reassures the child
- It helps in avoiding power struggles with the child
- One can avoid physical punishment
- One can get chores done by the child without nagging
- Reduces the number of outbursts and tantrums
- Helps in completion of homework on time Promotes appropriate speech and the child stops whining, lying and demanding
- It helps in potty training
Rewarding a child has many benefits. Parents have much to gain. They have less hassles with the child. They can groom the child according to their wishes. The question that arises is how to reward?
How to Reward a Child?
- Set up clear cut boundaries, so that the child knows what is expected of him or her
- One should stay calm and be firm as well as consistent while setting up boundaries and disciplining the child
- Each child has different developmental styles and temperaments. One must reward accordingly. Some are quite happy if you verbally praise them. Others would expect a gift as a reward
- Praise good behavior through positive reinforcement. One should show extra attention and shower words of affirmation and praise
- Reward after the task is completed
- The child can be involved in the selection and purchase of the reward
Some Types of Rewards
- Teaching the child to bake a favorite cake or treat
- Make sock puppet
- Fly a kite in the backyard
- Pick up some movies from the library
- Dance to the tune of the radio
- Camp in the backyard
- Visit the airport to see the planes take off and land
- Play a computer game with your child
- Take out some scrap fabric and make clothes for your child’s doll
- One can gaze at the stars
- Jump rope in the yard
- Popsicles can be made from disposable cups filled with juice
- Work on a puzzle together
- The child can have a new hairdo
- A pillow fight would be fun
- Make a movie film starring the child with a video
- Give a hug and kiss
Rewards help in building up a positive rapport between the parent and child. One need not physically abuse the child to get something done. Approval of behavior can be done in a manner that is acceptable to the child. A child who is rewarded will have better self-esteem and will grow up to respect his or her parents.
Comments
Leave a Reply
