I’ve been trying to use more positive reinforcement with my kids, but I’m struggling to make it a consistent habit. Any tips on how to incorporate this into our daily routines? I know it’s important, but sometimes I forget or get caught up in other things. Looking for practical ideas that have worked for other parents.
I turned chores into a fun challenge with my child. Last week, we timed how fast he could fold laundry and he beat his record. Now he asks to do it on his own. I also try to notice the small moments, like when he puts away his backpack without being reminded. These little occurrences seem to add up and encourage him. What kinds of daily routines have you tried so far? I’m always looking for new ideas too.
I use a pocket notepad to jot down little wins. For example, my older child helped with homework yesterday, and I made sure to express my pride. It works.
I’ve been trying to make positive reinforcement a habit too. It’s not easy! I started using little sticky notes around the house as reminders. Like on the fridge, I wrote ‘Notice something good.’ It helps me remember.
My 5-year-old loves when I catch her being helpful. Yesterday, she helped set the table without me asking. I made sure to say how much it meant to me. Her face lit up!
I’m curious what others do. Do you have any specific phrases or moments you try to focus on? I feel like I’m still learning what works best at this age.
I’ve found setting reminders on my phone really helpful for this. I put little notes to myself like ‘catch them being good’ or ‘praise effort’ that pop up at different times.
It took a while, but now I notice the good stuff more naturally. Like this morning, I saw my youngest putting away toys without being asked. A quick ‘I love how you’re cleaning up!’ made her beam.
Another thing that’s worked well is having a family gratitude time at dinner. We each share something we’re thankful for about each other. It’s become a fun ritual the kids look forward to.
Mostly, I try to focus on small wins throughout the day. It’s not perfect, but I’ve seen real changes in how the kids respond.
When my kids were younger, I struggled with this too. What really helped was setting up a ‘caught being good’ jar. We’d drop in a marble whenever we noticed someone doing something positive. It became a fun family game.
I also started leaving little notes in lunchboxes or on pillows. Just quick things like ‘Thanks for helping with dishes last night!’ The kids loved finding these surprises.
One thing that worked well was praising effort rather than results. So instead of just saying ‘Great job on that A,’ I’d say something like ‘I’m impressed by how hard you studied for that test.’
It took time, but eventually, looking for the positive became second nature. Now my teens even catch me doing good things sometimes! 
Have you tried anything like this with your kids?