You have already taken the first positive step to developing a set of behavior goals for your child; however, as it is true with many of life’s most important projects, follow-up is equally important as the initial step.
This blog offers suggestions relating to meeting those behavior goals you have set for your child by using three basic techniques:
- Making Tracking Behavior Fun
- Using Public Posting as a Motivator
- Involving your child in the process of tracking behavior.
Making Tracking Behavior
The task of tracking behavior is much more effective (and pleasant) when you and your child cooperate as a team. For instance, allowing your child to participate in making or decorating their behavior goal chart may make the process more fun. Sit down with your child with a poster board and crafts materials to come up with the chart as a team!
Using Public Posting as a Motivator
It is important to understand that public posting should be used to motivate, rather than punish your child. For that reason, using a reward-based system, such as giving gold star stickers, is a great way to get results. It also allows your child to see their progress he has made.
Involving Your Child in the Process of Tracking Behavior
Children respond best to behavior goal programs when they are involved in the data tracking. Whichever system you are using, be sure to involve your child in the data tracking element. For example, if you are using a chart in which behaviors are tracked with a tally system, allow your child to make the tally marks and be sure that they understand what the marks signify. By doing this, they will be more involved in the process of tracking behavior and they will better understand the goals they are trying to achieve!
Get Teachers involved in Tracking Behavior
Consistency is crucial when it comes to reaching behavioral goals. This implies that the behaviors need to be tracked and addressed at school as well as at home. Teachers are a great resource that can help your child reach behavioral goals. Open a dialogue with them and do not be afraid to discuss any behavioral issues that you are trying to address. Goal-based programs are much more successful when all of the child’s caretakers are on the same page!
