Some charts and contracts are created specifically for children at a certain level of development and some are not very specific. Also, none of the graphics creators know you, your child, or your family. So if you’re considering downloading a pre-made chart or contract, be prepared to evaluate its usefulness, rather than take it as gospel.

Appropriate for your child?

Even if you know behavior charts and contracts work because they worked for you as a child, that doesn’t mean they’re a good fit for your child or your family life. For example, for some children, the best way to get them to be consistent in doing their homework or brushing their teeth would be to be present with them. If you brush your teeth together after meals and if they do their homework in the kitchen while you prepare dinner, you may not need a behavior modification tool, and it may even seem like an intrusion or the introduction of an impersonal element. and from memory. in your warm daily life.

In addition, you should consider the personal development of your child. Children have different motivations and respond differently to attempts to encourage them to change their behavior. Your example in, say, breaking their smoking habit, may be more influential to them than any tool ever invented.

Another thing to consider before trying a chart or contract is whether your child has an underlying problem that is causing the behavior you want to change. A child whose poor eyesight is causing problems at school may become grumpy and disrespectful due to stress. A child who is depressed may not complete tasks. Physical and mental health problems can interfere with behavior in sometimes unexpected ways. If your child isn’t responding normally to your requests for certain types of behavior, make sure there isn’t an underlying problem affecting your child.

Not all charts and contracts are the same

It’s important to recognize the difference between charts and contracts that set goals that are absolute goods (pets must be fed) and those that advance a point of view about which there may be disagreement or may not align with your family’s values. or your child’s. circumstances (children’s assignment should be contingent on doing chores; high school students should never date on school nights; homework should be done immediately after returning from school).

If you have decided to use a behavior chart or contract with your child, and the focus is on one of those goals that are indisputable (children must meet their commitments to attend the clubs and activities in which they have signed up), you may be fine using a chart prepared by someone else. When it comes to goals that are connected to your family’s values, it’s best to create a chart yourself.

Rewards, punishments or neither?

Charts and contracts can promote the positive or discredit the negative. You should consider which approach is most appropriate before using a chart or contract. Points, check marks, smiley/frown faces, gold stars, stickers, rewards, punishments – there are many methods that can be used to rate a child’s behavior and rather than just using what is available, it is advisable to consider which is most appropriate for the child and behavioral goals. If there is a reward or punishment attached, these consequences should also be tailored to the situation.

If you’re not sure whether behavior charts or contracts are good tools to use with your particular child or children, contact a local professional, such as your child’s pediatrician, for advice.