I’ve been trying to teach my kids to be more responsible, but I’m not sure about the best approach. Has anyone here had success with positive reinforcement? Or is punishment more effective? Looking for real experiences from parents who’ve tried both methods. What worked better for you in the long run?
My kid and I recently started a ‘chore challenge’ game. We brainstormed a list of tasks, and each week we pick a few randomly. It’s been surprisingly effective!
Some days are still a struggle, but overall, it’s made chores less of a battle. I’ve noticed my child taking more initiative lately.
I’m curious how others handle setbacks or days when motivation is low. Do you have any strategies for keeping things positive when the initial excitement wears off?
I’m just starting to introduce chores to my kid and trying out different approaches. I’ve been mixing small rewards with letting natural consequences happen. If they tidy up, we have extra story time, but if not, we end up with less of it. I’m curious too—do you find that over time kids begin to act without needing rewards, or do they always expect something extra? Also, what do you do on days when your kid just doesn’t feel like participating?
Positive reinforcement worked better for us. Started with a simple reward system for chores.
Took time, but the kids eventually did tasks without prompting. They seemed proud of their work.
On tough days, we’d do chores together or postpone. Being flexible helped keep things positive.
I’ve found a mix of positive reinforcement and natural consequences works well for us. We set up a simple routine where the kids earn points for completing tasks. They can exchange these for small rewards they enjoy.
At first, they needed reminders. But over time, they started taking initiative on their own. It’s been amazing to see them feel proud when they remember to do something without being asked.
On tougher days, we adjust expectations. Sometimes we turn chores into a game or do them together. The key has been staying consistent with the system while also being flexible when needed.
It took some trial and error, but focusing on the positives has really helped build their confidence and sense of responsibility.
In my house, positive reinforcement worked better than punishment. When the kids were younger, we used a sticker chart. They’d get a sticker for each chore, and after a certain number, they could pick a small treat or activity. As they got older, we switched to a point system that they could use for things like extra screen time or a later bedtime on weekends.
Punishment just led to more arguments and resentment. The kids would do chores, but grudgingly. With positive reinforcement, they actually started to take pride in their work. It took time, but eventually they started doing some tasks without being asked.
There were still tough days when no one felt like doing anything. On those days, I’d usually let it slide and we’d tackle it together later. Flexibility helped keep the peace while still maintaining expectations.