Most people work more effectively and enthusiastically when there is a reward involved. Getting children to help with housework is not always easy, but it is possible.
Pocket Money/Allowance
- A simple work = pay system similar to an adult job. A child is given a list of tasks and at the end of the week receives a set amount of pocket money if all the tasks are completed satisfactorily. Money can be deducted for jobs that aren’t done or which are done inadequately and also for any inappropriate behaviour.
- Rather than a set amount of allowance, assign a value to chores for children around the house. Each child can earn an amount appropriate to the effort they put in. Jobs such as putting out the rubbish bin, cleaning up outside/pool toys, walking the dog etc can be given a specific value. A tally can be kept of how many times a child completed each task within a week to work out an allowance amount.
Reward Systems for Children
Establishing a rewards system separate to an allowance allows parents to encourage good behaviour without attaching a monetary value to it. There are several ways to set up such a system:
- Allocate points to different kids' chores (like those listed above). Harder, more time consuming tasks are given more points. Set aside some easy tasks that are limited to younger children. Start a chart for each child where they can keep a tally of their points by either making tally marks or placing stickers on the chart. Points are only allowed if other responsibilities (such as setting table, doing homework) are completed. At certain milestones (eg 25, 50, 100) inexpensive rewards or treats such as a special dessert or meal, a favourite snack, a small toy or book etc can be claimed.
- Use a points system as above but set a higher limit (eg 300 points). When a child reaches that goal they are able to request a one-on-one activity with one of their parents (eg a trip to the beach or movies) or a favourite activity (friend to visit for a sleepover).
- Have a collection of rewards that a child can earn through good behaviour. When they have done well (completing homework without complaining all week, shared well with siblings all day, completed chores without having to be reminded) they can earn a reward such as 30 minutes computer time, being allowed to select a movie to hire, buying a novel or activity book etc.
- Start a behaviour chart that specifically targets problem areas – sharing and playing well with siblings, completing homework, keeping bedroom tidy, finishing meals. At the end of each day, go through the chart, rewarding children with stickers for good behaviour. Set a goal to qualify for rewards such as avoiding a specific bad behaviour for an entire week or being able to avoid all bad behaviours listed for two days in a row.
It is important to keep the age and temperament of the child in mind. Young children require more frequent rewards to maintain their interest and motivation. All children, no matter how well behaved, will slip up occasionally. It is important to emphasise the benefits of good behaviour rather than focusing on avoiding punishment for bad behaviour.
Using reward charts to encourage children to help around the home can be a very simple and effective way of teaching them the importance of working together as a family. Sticker charts can be used to encourage good behaviour and establish new routines or skills.
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