So last night, big sister was at karate, and I was trying to have a piano lesson with the middle brother. The only trouble is, we have a one year old who is into everything. We actually had to move the piano into a separate room so we can close the door, because he kept crawling on top of the piano during piano practice.
My 5 year old is practicing a song that just needs a lot of repetition and run-throughs. But, it's hard for me to sit there with him while his little brother is standing at the door howling because there's no one else in the house to play with.
I usually give the kids checklist to fill out when I can't practice with them but tonight I thought I would sweeten the deal. Every time he completed a task, he got to eat a smartie or a chocolate chip, whatever is in the box. It's absolute bribery, but I'm okay with that. With a toddler and two big kids, I am an advocate for whatever works, and whatever gets them playing!
In contrast, I gave a checklist to his big sister earlier, and instead of marking each box with an X, she decided to get creative. I love her brain!
2 comments:
Clearly your kids are messed up from all the bribery...:-P
That checklist is a wonderful return on an investment.
How do you keep them from just eating all the treats?
Love the 'Bribery' check list. Started 8 yr old grandson on violin using Suzuki. (I started that way 55 years ago). Simple tunes give him satisfaction in quick successes. Will begin candy check list with him.
Post a Comment