Instead of cash, reward children with experiences

Ifeel that the phrase “get paid” sounds inappropriate and a little harsh. It would be better if we could reword it into something positive and intrinsic when it comes to motivation — like “reward”. This kind of reinforcement creates an amicable and smooth parenting relationship and promotes individual growth for both ends. Say for instance, a child does chores and in return you can reward him something apart from money and other tangible materials that attracts your child’s interest or the things he or she is into and enjoys the most. It could be a trip, a film, a collectible or rendering community service or charity. Anything that makes a child happy and feel secured.

However, I believe children today are disconnected with the reality of what money is and how difficult it is to earn. It is really a millennial thing, where children today are impatient and want instant gratification in getting what they want, including money.

From an educator’s point of view, I think parents have a chief responsibility here. I remember when I was a child, if I did chores at home, my mum would take me to a grocery store and I would go on a local chocolate and gummy bear candies shopping spree. But it had to be a certain level of chore. To top it all, my mum would explain everything to me — why am I getting this reward now? Why do I not get it on other days?

A right combination of understanding your child’s behaviour, awareness of the generation’s trends and practical yet loving parenting are key to addressing this never ending kerfuffle of whether a child should get paid or not. From Mr Nicart Obsuna Physical education head at a Dubai-based school