Thread: My Pupils Are Bribable :-)

I don't. I expect them to do their work and they do it because it's expected. Every so often, I'll give stickers but not necessarily for anything they've done. I'll just give them stickers because I like stickers and I know they like them too.

In my case, I'm with the kids for 30 min a day for a group; to some it's little, to some it's much. I think it's not good to give them many awards, cause both behavior and participation must be considered.

The so-called awards are easy to be made, even memo notes can be used, but I don't use different awards for different grades- they get something if the task is completely done ... with my help.

I think that giving such form of incentives once in a while or for certain tasks won't harm. An 'award' for every work done might send the wrong message though. They might expect for a tangible reward all the time. Kids have to be intrinsically motivated.

I don't bribe my kids all the time (of course mine are in middle school, so they are much older), but an occasional bribe works wonders. I agree that always rewarding them leads to them expecting it.

I don't think there's anything wrong with rewarding kids for good behavior/good work. Too many adults these days fail to acknowledge a job well done, and it can be devastating to the recipient's self-esteem.

Instead of physical rewards all the time, I think giving verbal praise is just as good. Kids always love trinkets, but they also get spoiled easily.

Behavioral psychology works with students, especially those who have a difficult time staying on task. We all respond well to small rewards for tasks completed. Older students, too, appreciate a free homework pass or small incentive. I've found they even respond to a cute sticker once in awhile.

I always gave out little happy face stickers when the kids did a good job. We also have charts (star charts), when the kids do what they are supposed to do they get a star. I don't think it's bribing them, I think it's encouraging them.