Sticker Chart

Back in January, Haley reached a point of whining that we could no longer tolerate.  Everything had become a big deal with her.  She is three, that is not uncommon.  In a last ditch effort we decided to make a good behavior chart for her.  Every day that she listened, obeyed and did not throw a tantrum, she was able to receive a sticker on a simple piece of notebook paper.  We decided that every 10 stickers she would be able to get an ice cream and with 50 stickers, she would receive a toy.

Stickers became a very big deal to Haley.  If we told her she lost her sticker for the day, it really upset her. It took about 100 days, but Haley finally got her 50 stickers.  A couple weeks ago, her school had a picnic, and up on finishing the picnic, we had promised Haley that we would take her to get a toy.  Haley could get any toy she wanted $25 and under.  We assumed that she would choose a doll or princess toy, but instead she picked a BLUE TONKA TRUCK that lights up.  She has been so proud of this toy.  I think she likes it so much because she had to earn it.

So far, the best thing about the sticker chart is not the ice cream outings, nor is it the blue truck.  Haley has had an overall transformation in her behavior.  I have been very surprised with how she has changed and been more willing to obey on the first time rather than fighting with us.  It is very important for her to know if she gets her sticker or not, and on the days that she does not get it, she usually apologizes as she goes to bed. 

I think a reward system is a very good thing, and I am greatful for how it has worked with Haley.