Our Marble System

I have had so many questions lately about our "Marble System", so I figured it was past time to write a post about it. :)

There are actually two ways our Marble System works, so I will explain both. The first method is based off of working to achieve a long term goal, and the second method has shorter term rewards. You can use either method, or a combination of the two depending on what works best with your children. In my opinion there are great things about both ways of using it.

We have a large jar filled with "marbles" (actually we used decorative stones since this sits on our desk in the kitchen. I wanted it to look pretty as well as serve a purpose.). Each boy has a jar (we just used canning jars) with their name on it. (we used scrapbooking stickers :) )

The boys earn marbles for good behavior. We have a a chart on our refrigerator that lists character qualities and corresponding Scripture verses and we use this to encourage them. When they do something that exhibits one of these qualities, they earn a marble and we read about it from the chart. They don't automatically earn marbles for doing chores, but if they go above and beyond on something then they earn a marble for that. They can also lose marbles for negative behaviors.

They can work toward a big prize by earning enough marbles to fill their jar. This can be a toy, or getting to go see a movie or a trip for icecream- whatever you feel is appropriate.

The nice thing about the marble system is that it works for a wide range of ages. For younger children, the instant reward of getting to pick a marble and put it in their jar just makes their day. For older children. they learn to work towards a goal, and also learn that doing the right thing can be really rewarding. They also learn that negative behavior takes them farther from reaching their goal (isn't that a fabulous life lesson?!)

*Update* I just wanted to add a few thoughts on this system...
An incentive system works well for some children, but not for ALL. I would advise caution to watch that your child is not doing the good behaviors only when they think they'll be rewarded. Children need to learn that it is important to do the right thing...whether there is a reward or not.

Love,