This guide will you answer 2.4 Use positive reinforcement with children.
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in promoting and encouraging desired behaviours in children. It involves giving children praise, rewards, or other positive feedback when they demonstrate desirable behaviours, which increases the likelihood that those behaviours will be repeated.
What is Positive Reinforcement?
Positive reinforcement is offering something favourable or pleasant immediately after a behaviour occurs. This encourages the child to repeat the behaviour. It stands in contrast to negative reinforcement, which involves removing an unfavourable element in response to a behaviour.
Why Use Positive Reinforcement?
Positive reinforcement is effective because it:
- Builds children’s self-esteem and confidence.
- Promotes a positive learning environment.
- Helps children understand which behaviours are desirable.
- Encourages repetition of good behaviour.
- Strengthens the bond between the child and the practitioner.
Types of Positive Reinforcement
There are several types of positive reinforcement strategies that can be used with children:
- Verbal Praise: Simple words or phrases like “Well done!”, “Great job!”, and “I am proud of you”.
- Physical Reinforcement: Hugs, high-fives, or pats on the back.
- Tangible Rewards: Giving stickers, toys, or certificates.
- Social Reinforcement: Allowing extra playtime, special privileges, or the opportunity to choose the next activity.
Implementing Positive Reinforcement
Observe and Identify
First, observe the children’s behaviours and identify what actions you want to reinforce. Focus on specific behaviours, such as sharing toys, following instructions, or being kind to peers.
Consistency is Key
Consistency in applying positive reinforcement is crucial. Make sure to reinforce the desired behaviours every time they occur, at least initially. This helps children associate the behaviour with the positive outcome.
Immediate Response
Give positive reinforcement immediately after the desired behaviour occurs. This helps children make a clear connection between their behaviour and the positive reinforcement.
Be Specific
When giving verbal praise, be specific about what the child did well. Instead of saying, “Good job,” say, “You did a great job sharing your toys with your friends.” This specificity helps children understand exactly what behaviour is being praised.
Set Clear Expectations
Let children know what behaviours are expected and what the rewards will be. Clear expectations help children understand how they can earn positive reinforcement.
Examples of Positive Reinforcement
In the Classroom
- Recognising Participation: “Thank you, Lucy, for putting your hand up before speaking. That shows great patience.”
- Encouraging Tidiness: “Well done, Sam, for putting away your toys neatly. That helps keep our classroom tidy.”
During Playtime
- Promoting Sharing: “Great job sharing your car with Jamie, Tom. That was very kind of you.”
- Encouraging Turn-Taking: “Nice work waiting for your turn on the slide, Emma.”
During Routine Activities
- Following Instructions: “Thank you, Jack, for washing your hands so well before lunch. That’s very hygienic.”
- Good Hygiene: “Terrific job brushing your teeth, Leah! Your teeth look so clean.”
Using Positive Reinforcement Strategically
To maximise effectiveness, consider the following strategies:
Variety in Reinforcement
Use a combination of different types of reinforcement. Children might respond differently to various forms of praise and rewards. Some might thrive on verbal praise, while others might be more motivated by tangible rewards.
Gradual Withdrawal
Once the desired behaviour is well-established, begin to gradually reduce the frequency of reinforcement. This helps the child maintain the behaviour independently. However, it’s essential to continue providing occasional reinforcement to keep the behaviour consistent.
Avoid Overuse
Overusing positive reinforcement can make it less effective. Ensure that it remains something special, rather than expected. Balance is crucial.
Personalisation
Tailor your reinforcement to individual children. What works for one child may not work for another. Take into account their interests and preferences.
Challenges and Solutions
Common Challenges
- Inconsistency: If reinforcement is not applied consistently, children might get confused about what behaviours are expected.
- Immediate Rewards: Finding the right moment to reinforce a behaviour can be challenging in a busy setting.
- Avoiding Favouritism: It’s essential to ensure that all children receive equal opportunities for positive reinforcement to avoid feelings of favouritism.
Solutions
- Set Routines: Establish routines and consistent patterns for behaviours and reinforcement. This helps both the practitioner and the children.
- Stay Observant: Constantly observe and be ready to reinforce positive behaviour as it happens.
- Maintain Fairness: Keep track of the reinforcement given to ensure all children receive fair opportunities for praise and rewards.
Reflecting and Adapting
While using positive reinforcement, it’s important to reflect on its effectiveness regularly and adapt strategies as necessary. Periodic reflection helps in understanding which methods work best with which children and allows for adjustments to be made.
Taking Notes
Keep notes on which strategies worked and which didn’t. Document the instances of specific behaviours and the type of reinforcement given. This can help in identifying patterns and making informed adjustments.
Seeking Feedback
Encourage feedback from colleagues, parents, and even the children themselves. This can provide valuable insights into the reinforcement styles that are most effective.
Benefits of Positive Reinforcement
Boosts Confidence
Children who receive positive reinforcement feel more confident in their abilities. They understand what behaviours are appreciated and are more likely to repeat them.
Enhances Relationships
Using positive reinforcement enhances the bond between children and practitioners. Children feel valued and understood, fostering a trusting relationship.
Promotes a Positive Environment
A setting where positive reinforcement is regularly used tends to be more positive and supportive. Children feel happier and more motivated, leading to a more collaborative and enjoyable learning environment.
Conclusion
Using positive reinforcement with children is a cornerstone of effective early years practice. It not only promotes desirable behaviours but also helps in building a positive, trusting, and supportive relationship with children. By observing behaviours, being consistent, providing immediate and specific praise, and tailoring reinforcement to individual children, early years practitioners can foster a nurturing and encouraging environment. Reflecting on practices and adapting strategies ensures continuous improvement and the effective use of positive reinforcement in early childhood settings.
