Reward charts for kids provide a positive way to praise your child. A reward chart also promotes good behavior. Posting a reward chart not only shows progress made by your child, it allows both of you to set goals for her to work toward.
A reward chart is a parenting tool that tracks your child's behavior and choices. The charts can be tailored to your child's individual needs. They can keep track of tasks as simple as avoiding a tantrum or helping with household chores. Homework charts can help your child stay on track academically.
A reward chart can be as simple as a homemade diagram, a store-bought chart covered with laminate, or a printable sheet from the internet. Good behavior can be denoted with tally marks, smiley faces, stickers or stamps. The reward chart can be a collaborative effort between parent and child that shows your child's creativity and personality.
The chart is simple to use. Parents decide which behavior to focus on. Each time good behavior occurs, your child receives a mark on the chart. When a certain number of tallies are reached, your child receives some type of reward. Some parents opt to give small rewards along the journey to encourage their children toward the ultimate goal, but you need to make sure that you don't lose sight of the chart's original purpose, which is to shape behavior over the long term. Any reward should be given as soon as your child earns it to better associate the reward with your child's positive behavior.
When your child gets older, you might consider a reward chart that takes privileges away based on negative behavior. If you decide to revoke a privilege, make sure it doesn't place a burden on you, the parent. Taking away the car from the 16-year-old who has athletic or extra-curricular activities after school every day can put an undue inconvenience on you, your time and your job.
The reward chart is a wonderful tool that teaches accountability, even at a young age. It provides concrete proof of your child's positive behavior. By making good behavior and a positive attitude fun, you indirectly model the types of behavior that you want to see, which makes your job as a parent an easier and more rewarding experience.
 | You may wonder what is the difference between ADD and ADHD? ADHD is a childhood condition that affects the brain's impulse control and forward planning ability. ADHD is treatable, but an evaluation is needed to rule out other potential causes. |
 | ADHD medications for children has traditionally been stimulants such as Ritalin. Doctors are now finding that some patients respond to non-stimulants, antidepressants and combinations of drug treatments and therapy. |
 | If you're interested in pursuing a drug-free ADHD therapy for your child, start with a psychologist who is known for treating disorders without using psychiatric drugs. |
Don't accept an ADHD diagnosis as a certainty, because the symptoms of ADHD could also indicate other conditions. |
If your child has had an ADHD diagnosis and is struggling in school, he might not be getting the treatment he needs. |
