Behavior Charts – Are They Worth the Work?

Kids are amazing creatures and help make life sweet, but sometimes they need a push in the right direction.  As Parents, it is easy to just do everything for them because they are so cute and little.  Too much of that is not always a good thing.

I have 2 kids.  My son Gianni is 9 and in 4th grade, while my daughter Mia is 5 and in Kindergarten.  Some days it is difficult to tell which one is older.

My daughter has easily been more independent than my son was at her age, and I think a lot of that has to do with her learning how to do things because of him, and us not coddling her as much when it comes to chores.

Both of my kids are currently on behavior charts.  As a parent, you realize quickly that there is no greater power than the promise of a treat.  Kids will do almost anything if they think they might get a toy or some fast food or something.  Don't question the game, just exploit it!

I find that the behavior chart works well if you utilize it the right way.  Like with anything, it's pointless if the kids do not fill the chart and you reward them anyway.  We have been guilty of this behavior many times.  I am a little more strict when it comes to this, but I will fully admit that Mia has me wrapped around her finger.  The problem is that they will do it once or twice and then start breaking you down by begging for the treat.  Stay strong!!

My advice on charts is really just if you think you have the ability to execute them then do it.  If you don't, you run the risk of the kids picking up on that behavior and using it to their advantage.  Kids are great at that.  If you want to do a chart but don't know where to start, here is a link that offers templates: http://www.freeprintablebehaviorcharts.com/