Tools to Change Behavior
January 26, 2010 by
Filed under Tools to Change Behavior
When child behavior experts speak about changing behavior, often they lapse into a philosophical discussion about modifying behavior. At times these discussions, while valuable, can become generalizations about behavior change, rather than discussing the specifics about individualized tools to change behavior.
Many parents that I speak with “get” why behavior modification is important, they understand many of the principles involved, they recognize that there are healthy as well as unhealthy ways to go about it, and they can see how positive behavior change can benefit their children and themselves.
Sometimes when parents are searching for a solution for their child’s bad or inappropriate behavior they can get so caught up in the various arguments and counterarguments about parenting methods, techniques and tips that you can almost hear them crying out:
“I just want to know what tools are out there to help me change my child’s behavior?”
Effective tools to help change behavior
Any information and knowledge that can make you a better parent is fantastic, but sometimes parents have heard enough and just want a tangible product or tools for behavior change, that they can start using right away.
The tools and strategies for behavior change that I have used successfully with my children include reward charts, behavior contracts, token economy, sticker charts, lucky dip rewards, and “I Did It!” certificates. While I sell some of these fantastic ready-to-go products on this website, with a bit of creativity, materials and effort you can make your own easily enough. Or you can get some of our great free reward charts here.
You can check out the articles below for further ideas on tools to change behavior.
Related Articles
Token Economy System For KidsFundamentally a Token Economy is a form of behavior modification whereby tokens are rewarded for appropriate behavior and the tokens may be cashed in for valued rewards. It can be a great way to improve behavior… positively!
Reward Charts for ChildrenFundamentally reward charts for children are a tool for behavior management or behavior modification whereby a child is awarded stickers or other rewards for behaving well. Why are our reward charts unique and so powerfully effective?
ParentingParenting is one of the most difficult jobs and also one of the biggest responsibilities one can have. Being the best parent that we can be, starts with the desire to be the best parent possible.
Behavior Modification TechniquesBehavior modification is an easy concept to grasp, but it tends to be much more difficult to actually put the techniques into practice. Examples of behavior modification techniques include timeout, positive reinforcement, modeling, positive discipline and loss of privileges.
Positive ParentingPositive parenting can be described as raising our children in a positive and supportive family environment, full of positive reinforcement, encouragement and yes, positive discipline. It’s about raising self-sufficient, independent and responsible kids.
Free Printable Reward ChartsAs a token of our appreciation for your visit to our website, we’d like to offer you a selection of free printable reward chart downloads. Once you print your reward chart, you can make it reusable by getting it laminated. When your kids earn the sticker spot, get them to color it in using whiteboard markers. When the reward chart is completed you can wipe it off and start again!
What Rewards to OfferChoosing an incentive/reward is as important as choosing the behaviors for the reward chart. The reward on offer needs to provide the necessary motivation. The following is a list of reward suggestions only, and is limited only by your imagination.
More Reward Chart HintsIf you take notice of the principles involved, using a reward chart is super easy. Here are some more hints to get the best out of using reward charts.
Uses For Your Reward ChartOne of the great advantages of using a reward chart is that they are very flexible in their use. In fact there are innumerable situations that you can effectively use reward charts for.
