The Money Jar

Ingredients:
2 Jars (Mason, Spaghetti Sauce, etc.)
Coins
Unruly Child

Step 1.  Decide on target behaviors (we decided to work on talking instead of whining, eating meals without complaining, sharing, following directions the first time she's asked and being quiet when I'm on the phone).  Assign a monetary amount to each behavior (following directions is worth 10 cents, everything else is worth 5.)

Step 2.  Explain rules to unruly child.  Explain that if they, for example, follow directions the first time they're asked to do something they will earn 10 cents.  Likewise, if they don't meet the targeted behaviors (and start whining, for example) 5 cents from her jar will go into my jar.  Also explain that "extra" coins can be earned for super duper extra helpful and kind actions.

Step 3.  Watch said unruly child turn into a perfect angel and magically decide that they have  to clean up the play room, take her blanket upstairs, and share with her sister.  Oh, and be consistent.


Step 4.  Call your friend and thank her for the idea because, at least for one day, you didn't  have to fight with your daughter.  Hug your daughter and love her.

Step 5.  Call your mom and thank her for raising you.  I don't know about you, but my mom did it all alone-and I don't know how she did it.  Love you, Mom!

Remember-change the goals as your child masters them and remember-this is a positive reinforcement technique.  The amount of money doesn't matter to the child as much as the fact that they can see items being put in or taken out of their jar.  If you don't feel comfortable with money use something else that your child really cares about.  We're saving up Olivia's coins to buy a DVD or a Barbie-whichever she decides she wants more.