Create A Simple Reward System for Toddlers and Preschoolers

A friend in my mom group told us that she was starting a reward system for her 2.5-year-old to try and remedy sleep issues. I haven’t started using one for Mia yet but I would love to implement a system in the future.

Reward systems use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. I hear about reward system for older kids but not tots, so I quickly dove into research mode. The concept is simple and seems like it could be an effective training method for littles teaching behaviors like, “please and thank you’s”, using the potty, dressing, eating etc.

Here’s a general concept:

1) Pick only one behavior or goal to reward at a time.

2) Set up a visual tracker or use an app, anything that can track their positive behavior. A star chart or any tracker like that is really nice to have in the house because it’s a visual representation that a child can be proud of. I love this star jar from Etsy. There are free printable charts too! Or make your own. Here’s a simple chart from Simply Organized.

3) As soon as the behavior or goal has occurred, immediately reward (with stickers or whatever you choose).

4) Give plenty of praise and use simple wording.

5) Milestone gifts can be given upon 5, 10, 15 stars - whatever you choose to reinforce the behavior.

Here are some ideas that are free (or a couple of dollars):

• A sack of seashells from the dollar store

• Crystals/rocks

• Homemade playdoh

• Free printables

• Sticker sheets

• A free letter from Mickey/Minnie

• Flower/Plant seeds

• Autographed photo from an astronaut

• Playdough Mats (free to print, laminate at home)

Here are some ideas between $5-$25:

• Water Coloring Paint Book

• Lite Brite

• Fishing Bath Toy

• Puffy Pet Shop Reusable Sticker Book

• Frozen Glitter Effect - Mess Free Coloring

• Model Clay w/ Tools Kit

• Montessori Counting Sticks

• Playdoh Eggs

• Kinetic Sand Castle or Sand Shell

• Dinosaur Eggs (pack of 12)

• Kitchen Sink

• Caterpillar/Butterfly Kit w/ Cage

Lastly, experts caution to avoid bribery while using this method or you could inadvertently teach your kids the opposite behaviors of what you want.

Happy growing up y’all!

xoxo

Christianne AKA MiLOWE MOM

@milowekids

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