Innovative Approaches to Rewarding Children: Recognise & Value Good Behaviour
The role of recognitions and rewards is significantly high for children of all ages. The acknowledgement and incentives play a pivotal role in shaping a child’s behaviour and attitude. They serve as the cornerstone of fostering a child’s self-esteem and confidence. Parents and teachers can find creative ways to induce recognition. This positive reinforcement acts as a catalyst for learning and development. Rewards reinforce the value of good behaviour.
The Shri Ram Universal School we believe in the philosophy that “Participation is Winning.” We ensure to bring in innovative approaches in implementing recognitions and rewards. Here, we go with our approaches to encourage and inspire our Shrites.
Significance of recognitions and rewards
A note of ‘Appreciation’ in words should work wonders for a child. It is essential to constantly motivate and inspire them individually.
Whether it is a sticker chart for completing chores or a special outing for excellent academic performance, rewards provide children with concrete incentives to strive for their best. It has to be aligned with desired behaviour and their judicious use.
Over-reliance can undermine intrinsic motivation. Children performing tasks solely for the sake of obtaining a reward is undesirable. Deriving satisfaction from the activity itself should be valued. Hence, it is essential to strike a balance, using rewards selectively. Phase them out as behaviours become internalised is the key to effectiveness.
Being innovative is an essential factor for regular and constant motivation for every child
Creativity adds excitement and novelty to the reward system. It ensures that rewards resonate with individual interests and preferences. Kids should be happy and content with the appreciation and rewards. Then only will they connect with the achievements as rewards.
Be creative in giving recognitions and rewards to kids
Be creative in giving recognitions and rewards to kids
Some ways to be creative are mentioned below.
- If a child loves books or a certain hobby like drawing take them either to a bookstore or art supply store. It will make the child happy and continue to behave in the desired manner.
- An experience can also constitute a reward. It could include a picnic in the park, a movie night at home, or a day of exploring a museum or zoo.
- A time-based system for rewarding is ideal. Children can earn extra play time or screen time after their studies.
- Privilege rewards allow children to behave appropriately. As they grow this recognition works better than giving just books, colouring books or toys. This could involve earning the privilege to choose the family movie for an evening, sit in a specially designated seat, or lead a classroom activity.
- Allow children to earn praise in social settings. Celebrate their achievements with friends or relatives. Teachers can create a “student of the week” spotlight or class applause for a project done. In a school where each class has many children, it becomes the class teacher’s duty to praise students. It is a teaching tool so each student can perform well in class and outside.
There are other ways also to implement recognitions and rewards. Surprise them with a motivation or unexpected treat. Goal-based reward works before exams are nearing. Children are expected to behave responsibly in school and at home. Teachers often show the way and help parents. At PTA meetings, discuss methods to help children do better.
Being a private school in Chokkanahalli, Bangalore, The Shri Ram Universal School also advises parents not to be too strict or overindulgent. If you want to know about setting boundaries for recognitions and rewards, speak to the class teacher for more insights.
