Celebrate Achievements: The Power of "Charting" to Help Shape Children's Behavior! by Pepi Silverman

As a society, we “expect” positive behavior as the standard; yet as parents, we tend to over-emphasize negative behaviors. When too much attention is given to undesirable behavior, our children receive a “mixed” message. Children intuitively seek attention and when the attention is a result of negative behavior, an increase of that behavior can occur.

Children are “energy sponges” drawn to larger responses, so refocus attention by minimizing your reactions. In turn, validate desired behaviors through the use of charting. Whether with smiley faces or stickers, shift attention by acknowledging positive behavior. Just as adults appreciate commendations from their bosses, kids will love seeing their achievements in a chart. Celebrate achievement and successes will multiply!