As parents, our approach to encouraging good behavior often hinges on a few critical factors. I often find myself weighing these elements in my pediatric practice, where new parents frequently grapple with their child’s behavior. Here are the two main considerations that shape my response:
- How much time do I have? Is it two hours, the whole night, or just ten minutes?
- What is the opportunity cost? What am I willing to sacrifice to achieve the desired outcome?
With these variables in mind, I make quick decisions. Kids are like little detectives, analyzing every expression, word, and gesture. My daughter, for instance, is already calculating her odds. “What will Dad do?” she contemplates. “Will he let me off the hook this time?”
To foster good behavior, we need to utilize all available strategies. Otherwise, we risk losing the battle and, dare I say it, raising a “problematic” child (just kidding, of course). Here’s a brief rundown of effective methods to encourage positive behavior, drawing from workplace management techniques—I promise, I’m not a bad parent for having resorted to bribery now and then.
Stick to Consequences
Rules mean little without consequences. The issues we see in society today often stem from a lack of accountability. If our children don’t perceive consequences for their actions, they’re less likely to take rules seriously. Thus, it’s vital to be consistent in enforcing consequences.
Set Clear Expectations
We must communicate our expectations to our children as clearly as possible. While past performance doesn’t guarantee future results, setting clear guidelines is our responsibility as parents.
Offer Rewards
Children respond well to rewards for good behavior. Whether it’s simple praise, stickers, or indulgences like ice cream, positive reinforcement goes a long way. Extra time on devices or additional storytime can also serve as effective incentives.
Promised Incentives (A.K.A. Bribery)
I’ve found that promised rewards can be incredibly motivating for my kids. However, just like setting expectations, these rewards must be explicit, not vague. Clear promises work wonders. I’ve used various incentives, but cash tends to be the most effective for us. Sure, I bribe my kids to encourage desired behavior—but I see it as a small price to pay for their long-term benefits.
Bribing younger kids is usually cheaper than negotiating with teens, who can be a bit pricier (as proven by recent studies in Virginia). It’s all about finding that balance between duty and positive reinforcement. However, it’s crucial to maintain boundaries; basic expectations shouldn’t be up for negotiation, but rewarding exceptional effort is often worth the investment.
This article originally appeared on Home Insemination Kit.
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In summary, encouraging good behavior in children requires a blend of clear expectations, consistent consequences, and rewards—sometimes even a little bribery. By maintaining these strategies, we can foster a positive environment that nurtures our kids’ growth.