Use positive reinforcement from "summary" of Positive Parenting by Rebecca Eanes
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in shaping a child's behavior in a positive way. Rather than focusing on punishment or consequences for negative behavior, positive reinforcement emphasizes rewarding good behavior to encourage its continuation. This approach involves noticing and acknowledging when a child behaves in a desired way, and then providing some form of positive reinforcement to reinforce that behavior. When using positive reinforcement, it's important to be specific about what behavior you are reinforcing. Instead of simply saying "good job," try to be more descriptive and say something like "I really appreciate how you cleaned up your toys without being asked." This helps the child understand exactly what behavior they are being praised for, making it more likely that they will repeat that behavior in the future. Positive reinforcement can take many forms, such as verbal praise, high fives, hugs, stickers, or small rewards. The key is to find what motivates your child and use that as a form of positive reinforcement. For example, if your child loves playing outside, you could offer extra outdoor playtime as a reward for completing their chores. Consistency is crucial when using positive reinforcement. Make sure to praise and reward your child every time they exhibit the desired behavior. This helps reinforce the connection between the behavior and the positive outcome, making it more likely that the behavior will be repeated in the future. It's also important to be genuine in your praise and reinforcement. Children are very perceptive and can tell when praise is insincere. Make sure to praise your child for genuine reasons and show them that you truly appreciate their efforts.- Positive reinforcement is a valuable tool in promoting positive behavior in children. By focusing on rewarding and reinforcing good behavior, parents can help their children develop important skills and values that will serve them well in the future.
