Got Some Marbles

Last week I was reading my cousin Michelle's blog, where she explained that her family was trying out a new system for motivation/discipline. I thought it was a great idea, so I went to the dollar store and bought marbles (except I couldn't find any actual marbles... just decorative stones). We have since implemented the system at our house, and I want to share it with you because it's working so well!

There's one big cache of marbles, and two jars labeled Asher and Joshua. Each kid receives marbles for the good things they do, and we take marbles away for rule violation. For instance:

They can receive marbles for:

• Getting to bed on time
• Reading a book
• Doing a page of "homework"
• Picking up something they find on the floor that is dangerous for the baby (small toy, piece of paper)
• Cleaning a room
• Emptying the dishwasher
• Taking out the garbage/recycling
• Taking a diaper outside to the big garbage can
• Doing a job for Grandma
• Act of service
• Sharing with brother
• Babysitting Max while I have a shower
• Putting their shoes or clothes away without being asked
• etc 

They get marbles taken away for:

• Hitting, kicking
• Lying
• Saying a bad word
• Yelling at their brother
•  Saying "no" or "never" when they are asked to do something

So far, they are extremely motivated by this marble thing! At the moment they are earning marbles for video game time. After they get the concept a little better, I'm going to have them earn different things - like money or fun family activities.

Two nights ago, Josh RAN to get to bed on time, and when he got there he said, "Mom, do I get a marble?" I said yes and he asked if Asher got one too. I said no because Asher wasn't in bed by 8:30. He said, "I LOVE the marbles, Mom!":)