I’ve been thinking about different ways to raise kids, and I’m particularly interested in positive reinforcement. You know, like when parents praise their children for behaving well or reward them for academic success.
It seems effective in the short run, but I’m curious about the long-term effects. Do these kids end up feeling more confident as they grow older, or could it lead to them depending on praise from others? I’ve come across various opinions, and I’d appreciate hearing from anyone who has experience or knows about studies on this topic.
From what I’ve seen with my kids, positive reinforcement has worked well, but I had to adjust over time.
At first, I praised everything, like putting on shoes or brushing teeth. My younger one started expecting praise for basic stuff and would ask, “Was I good?” constantly.
Now, I focus more on effort than just results. For instance, when my older child struggles with math homework, I point out how they kept trying even when it was hard. They seem more willing to tackle challenging tasks now.
I also mix up the types of rewards; sometimes it’s extra screen time, other times a high five, or just them feeling good about what they did. Both kids have become more self-motivated this way, which feels like the right direction.
I remember a moment when my child was reliant on constant praise for their homework. It turned into a bit of a challenge as they felt upset if I wasn’t enthusiastic right away. Over time, I’ve learned to balance my responses. Some days, I acknowledge their hard work, and other times, I let them enjoy their achievements privately. This way, I’ve noticed they build their confidence and feel proud even in moments of independence.