Advice on how to celebrate the little wins

Celebrate Little Wins

Bringing Positive Reinforcement Techniques From Our Specialized Environment Into Your Home

Celebrating the behaviors we want to encourage increases the likelihood of the behavior happening again in the future. For children with learning and social differences, it’s extremely important that techniques taught in the classroom carry over and are mirrored outside of the classroom and at home.

We don’t just want to celebrate “big wins” like a report card of straight As. We want to appreciate and acknowledge the little things, too. First, let’s start with some examples of “little wins” or expected behaviors that we can celebrate at home.

• Tidying up without being asked • Asking for help with a task • Tying their shoes • Keeping their room clean • Putting away/doing the dishes • Playing nicely with friends • Having a good day at school • Listening while others speak • Being kind to others

How can we positively reinforce and encourage the behaviors that we want to continue to see? • Activities — Incorporate a celebratory dance or take a jumping break when your child has accomplished a certain part of a task. • Compliments and observations — Verbal positive reinforcement can help motivate kids of all ages. A

“Good job!” and “You did it!” can go a long way. You also can compliment a child on their process rather than the end result. Consider the positive impact of making simple observations about your child’s hard work. For example, you could say “Wow, you really thought hard about that,” or “You seem so happy with the end result.

I love your smile!” • Items — Being given electronics, prizes or rewards can be great motivators for larger expected behaviors and accomplishments. For little wins, you don’t have to purchase something as a gift. Consider providing a set amount of time with an item as a motivation.

• Actions — High-fives, hugs and applause all are great ways to make your child feel the work they are doing is worth celebrating. • Time — Sometimes a child most wants your time and attention. Acknowledge your child’s little wins with undivided attention. • Food/drinks — This can be an extra snack, their favorite snack, or something they’ve never tried before.

Find what motivates your child and celebrate the many little and big wins they experience each day.