Why are we quick to punishing our children when they goof up? Why are we slow in rewarding them when they end up doing something great?

While most parents get into the habit of bribing their children “before” doing something, like cleaning up their room or mowing the lawn, the action of rewarding them for their efforts “after” the deed has been done is a better way of appreciating them for their good behavior. Bribing never works, and in the long run, your child will always tend to have the psychological “upper hand” over you.

So always reward your child. Never bribe them into behaving well.

Is your child frequently thrilling you with some excellent behavior? Listed below are some ideas that you can use to reward your child:
 

• Praise, praise and praise. It always works, like magic!
   
• Cook up her favorite meal, snack or dish.
   
• Get her friend or group over, and make something for them to eat.
   
• Never played that video game with your son? Sit down and play it out with him. He will be thrilled!
   
• Give your child the choice of what he wants to do- whether he wants to go for a movie or spend an evening out with his friends, or whether he would like an educational toy. Give him the freedom to choose.
   
• Extra time at TV or at play can be a great reward. But do not forget to tell him why you are giving him this.
   
• Take your child to his favorite bookstore or toyshop, and let him pick up whatever he likes. But give him a budget within which to choose.
   
• Has the circus come to town? Take your child to watch it as a special evening out.
   
• The family can go out for lunch or dinner at the child’s favorite restaurant. Your child is sure to love the special gesture!
   
• The family can pick out a video of the child’s choice and watch it together. A great reward for something well done!
   
• It would be a great reward if the child gets exclusive time, say an hour or half an hour with any parent. No other interruptions please! This time can be spent in whatever way the child desires. A great occasion for bonding and the child will feel very special.        

Remember good behavior should be immediately rewarded. It’s of no use if the reward is given days after the event is over. Also, do not keep giving the same rewards. It can get boring and your child might just lose interest.

So, what are your special ways of rewarding good behavior in your children?