Homeschool Reinforcements, Rewards, and Incentives

The following is a post from Stef.

I like rewards.  Employees like rewards (they’re called bonuses).  Children LOVE rewards.  God likes to give rewards,

“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” Matthew 25:23

But sometimes home educators get a little bent out of shape because “a child is supposed to obey” and they become stingy with rewards.  Or they tend to get itchy when thinking about buying something new to reward a hard working homeschooler who has too many legos.

Rather than dig into your piggy bank to reward a homeschooler – why not dig into your time?!

Reward with game night and/or let a child skip filling in one assignment in order to play (it’s always educational).

Or put down the “to do list” and put together a puzzle.

Make ice pops and swing outside once they conquer cursive, multiplication, or writing their name.

Bake something yummy together (you can always find math in the kitchen so sneak in a lesson).

Give free time to read a new magazine or even an old one.

Crack open the piggy bank for some “cheap” fun and go skating or bowling!  Can’t get out – play it together on the Wii!

Homeschool reinforcements, rewards, and incentives do not have to fall under the bribery rain cloud.  My 4yr old is content with a sticker for a job well done.  My 8 yr old is happy to sit down and play a game together.  You do not have to buy out Toys R Us to reward a child – simply give them your time and love for a job well done.