I’m trying to think of some good reward ideas for my 2 year old but I’m running out of steam here. We’ve been doing stickers and small treats but I feel like I need to mix it up a bit. What kind of creative rewards do you guys use that actually work? Looking for things that don’t cost much but still get them excited about good behavior.
My kid goes absolutely wild for treasure hunts around the house. I hide little toys or crackers in easy spots and give simple clues like “look where we brush teeth.” Takes maybe five minutes to set up but watching them search and discover things feels like Christmas morning to them.
Another thing that works surprisingly well is letting them use grown-up items as rewards. Like drinking from a real glass instead of a sippy cup or using my flashlight to “explore” under the couch. Simple stuff but they feel so grown up.
One fun way we reward good behavior is by letting my kids choose activities like what book to read or what music to play in the car after they finish a task. It’s amazing to see them beam with pride when they get to decide!
We also have special jobs at home that make them feel important. My youngest loves it when I ask her to be my “helper”. She gets to carry things or turn off the lights, and she feels so accomplished.
Sometimes, we have “yes days” where they have more say in little things like what to wear or what snack to have. It’s a great way for them to feel in control without spending any money.
My 5 year old gets really excited about earning extra privileges instead of physical rewards. Things like staying up 15 minutes past bedtime or getting to pick the movie for family night seem to motivate them just as much as treats did.
We also started doing “special time” where they get one-on-one attention doing whatever they want for 20 minutes. Could be playing blocks, drawing together, or just talking. It costs nothing but they work so hard to earn it.
I’m still figuring this out though. Do you find that your 2 year old understands delayed rewards yet? Mine used to need immediate rewards but now can wait a bit for bigger things. Curious how that works at the toddler stage since I’m thinking about what might work for other kids that age.