I’m looking for ideas on positive reinforcement techniques that work well with kids. I know about the basics like praise and rewards, but I’m wondering what other effective methods are out there. Any parents or teachers have suggestions for different approaches that have worked for you?
Progress charts work great for us - my kids love slapping stickers on when they remember stuff without nagging. I’ve started catching them being good randomly, like “wow, you helped your sister without being asked!” They don’t expect it, which makes it hit harder. For rewards, I give them choices instead of picking myself. Do well all week? Pick between two weekend activities. They feel in control and I don’t have to brainstorm new prizes constantly.
What surprised me most? My teens actually love public recognition. Not the embarrassing kind - but when I brag about their accomplishments to grandparents or family friends, they absolutely beam. My 17-year-old still lights up when I tell his uncle about his good grades.
Delayed rewards work way better than I thought they would. Skip the immediate treats and do bigger things instead - like a special outing after they’ve stayed consistent for a few weeks. My 14-year-old actually reminds me about her tasks because she’s working toward something she really wants.
Here’s what really works: let them “bank” good behavior. They go above and beyond on chores or homework? They can cash it in later when they mess up or need some slack. Shows them that building goodwill has real benefits 
One-on-one time beats stuff every time with my kids. Ten minutes of focused play doing whatever they want is worth more than any toy I could buy. I also let them stay up late with me when they’ve been responsible - they feel so grown up and it doesn’t cost me anything.
Still working on this with my child but they’re way more into being my helper than getting rewards. When I make them my kitchen assistant while cooking, they feel like they’re running the show. I’ve started letting them choose our next activity after they finish their tasks. But honestly, I’m running out of steam here - how do you make good behavior feel rewarding without constantly brainstorming new ideas?
My kid responds way better to earning privileges than getting physical rewards. Extra 15 minutes of bedtime on weekends or choosing our movie night pick works great. I’ve found that calling out their effort beats generic praise every time - “I saw how hard you worked on that math problem” hits different than just saying “good job.” Another trick I use: I’ll ask my daughter to teach me something she learned. Makes her feel proud and I don’t have to do much.