3 of 14

Write now Article Tools

Immediately rewarding a small child for exhibiting appropriate behavior reinforces good conduct and contributes to his emotional and cognitive development. A child's earliest lessons about good behavior begin as he watches the activities of adults around him and then mimics what he sees. As he receives positive reinforcement for his efforts, he develops a sense of competency and is more likely to show initiative as he begins to work toward three developmental milestones.

1. He develops an internal locus of control; the ability to motivate himself toward future developmental tasks.

2. He gains the confidence to venture further into the world around him because he has received encouragement for his prior efforts.

3. Encouraged by his earlier successes, he begins the process of gaining autonomy; learning that he exists apart from his caregivers or parents.

In contrast, if a preschooler immediately receives mostly negative reinforcement in the form of "don'ts" and "no-no's" he becomes fearful of trying new things and reticent to model the behaviors of others. Without immediate affirmation, he lacks the empowerment to explore new behaviors and becomes withdrawn and anxious. With a lack of positive reinforcement he will likely fail to achieve the same three developmental milestones. Instead;

1. He will lack an internal locus of control and because of fear, will be unable to motivate himself toward future developmental tasks.

2. Because of lack of self confidence, he will hesitate to venture further into the world and will exhibit signs of insecurity and anxiety.

3. Discouraged because of the lack of immediate positive reinforcements, he will struggle with extreme levels of separation anxiety and will lack a sense of who he is apart from his parents or caregivers.

A small child who receives immediate praise and affirmation for his accomplishments not only feels good about himself but also feels successful at forging connections with those who engage him. He experiences acceptance by caregivers and peers when immediate rewards are given in the midst of positive interaction.

The best forms of immediate reward are those that positively impact a child's sense of self. Tangible rewards, such as toys or candy, should be used sparingly since the small child will focus his delight upon the item and miss the significance of why he has received it. Preschoolers often enjoy stickers and stars but these rewards are temporal and quickly lose their importance.

Rewards that speak the loudest

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about The importance of immediate reward for appropriate behavior in early childhood?
We want to hear your view. Write now!