Article: Help - the Behavior Chart Isn't Working
Question: "I downloaded the behavior charts on your site and set my
daughter up with one. But so far her behavior hasn't changed at all.
Why isn't it working?"
Response: First, congratulations for giving it a try! I know that
stepping out into relatively unknown territory by using these
charts can be a bit daunting. You giving it a try reflects your
dedication to your helping your child succeed and I love that. :-)
And it can get better!
In order to take a closer look at why her behavior hasn't changed,
let's go over some important aspects of using behavior charts.
1. Is your desired behavior age appropriate?
If your daughter is 4, expecting her to clean her room before she can mark something down on her chart isn't age appropriate. Check this page on my site for some ideas of age appropriate behaviors you can use on the charts.
2. Are you expecting a miracle?
You can't expect someone to run a marathon if they haven't done any training, right? Okay, well you *can* - but it'll be pretty disappointing!
Start small with your child's chart. Make the first behavior they focus on something that is well within their reach and that they can find success with. It should be something they're struggling with, but not the biggest issue.
The reason to start with a small one is so that your child or student realizes that they can do this. You need to build on small wins instead of expecting instant miracles.
3. Is the behavior specific and measurable?
When it comes to these charts working, you have to be super
specific. "Clean your room," and "Be nice to your brother," are too
generic. Make the goals something you can see or hear specifically.
Behaviors like this:
- Raise your hand before you speak.
- Have clothes in the hamper before bed.
- Put your shoes in the closet.
- Ask permission before going out in the yard.
It should not be a matter of opinion about whether they were met.
There's got to be something tangible to see, or specific to hear in
order for it to count as a specific/measurable goal.
4. Are you being consistent?
Your child has to know that they can trust you to deliver on the incentives chosen for completing the chart. If you agree that when they fill their chart you're going to let them have a friend over, then follow through with it to the best of your ability.
Sure, life happens and plans change, but if you want these charts
to be effective, your child needs to see the cause and effect. If
they start seeing that you're not willing to hold up your end of
the agreement, they'll be less interested in holding up their end.
Now You Have 4 Tips to Put Into Practice - So Don't Give Up
Just because your initial experience with the charts didn't give you the results you were looking for, don't give up on the charts - or your child. It can take some time to find the right combination of attention and commitment to the charts so that their behavior eventually changes with this approach.
The charts themselves are not magic. But when you can come together with the child and make sure that you're following at least these 4 tips above regularly, you'll be that much closer to having a successful experience with the charts.
© Copyright 2007 - FreeBehaviorCharts.com. All rights reserved.
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