It’s funny how people reference the age of two as “the terrible twos.” I actually found them pretty easy, it’s the age of three that seems to be testing me.
My daughter has recently found her independence and wants to do everything herself and everything on her own time. This is all great, of course, because she is learning so much right now. However, at the same time, she’s not listening to me as much as she used to. A likely story, right?
A two-minute time out isn’t really helping, as she willingly goes to sit on the steps, and giggles the whole time like it’s a game. I have to turn my back because I laugh too, sometimes. Some disciplinarian I am!
My daughter is in to stickers and loves getting them, whether from the doctor, school or dance class. So, I figured now is as a good a time as any to introduce a reward chart for GOOD behavior, rather than giving her a time-out.
I think telling her ‘well done’ is a great way to promote good behavior. I agree with the UK’s Supernanny when she says the reward chart will recognize when she does things right, and will give her something to aim for so she keeps it up.
I’ve picked specific things that I feel I remind her of daily. After the week is completed, (or mostly completed, let’s face it, she is only 3!) I will offer her a small reward. It could be coins for her hungry dinosaur bank, a new book or a special craft or project for just her and I.
These are some things I will include in the chart:
- Share with others
- Stay in bed, make bed
- Say please and thank you
- No yelling indoors
- Clean pick up, put away
This is the chart I made for her. I can print off multiple copies so I’m all set for the month, and even left a spot at the bottom so I can input what week it is. I understand these specific behaviors will change over time, but this is a good start. Wish us luck!
Do you use a reward system with your children? If so, what do you do and does it work?
Terrible Twos have never come to our house, but threes… oh dear!! At three they have control over actions and words and look out world!! My boys weren’t very motivated by charts. But they like story time with mom.
Stephanie Kay recently posted…5 Steps to Create a Menu Plan
Threeeeee. FML. I have a girl/terror. I have been looking for something like this!
I know my children have used Behavior/Chore Charts with my grandkids, and the kids have always pointed them out… with their stickers or stars or little magnets of GOOD. I like them. It focuses kids in a nice, calm way and presents a daily regimen of appropriate behavior and helpfulness. Thanks for posting and remember that each age passes!
Sharon – MomGenerations.com recently posted…Providence Rock ‘n Roll Half Marathon 2013 race re-cap
Thanks Sharon! I know you know what I’m talking about. 🙂 much appreciated!
Our family has always experienced the same thing – age 2 was fine, but age 3 was tough. That phrase needs an update, like “Thorny Threes!” (corny, I know)
Haha totally! You should trademark that!