Joy never ceases to amaze me. Joy has managed to remove our sons focus from television and video games and onto things that are actually good for them. Let me tell you what she did.
Joy and I have talked about how problematic it is that our kids (especially the oldest) thinks video games and t.v. from the time he wakes up. We have talked about how to change this and the only thing I could think of is "make" them go outside and play more. The only problem with that is that because one of our sons is a maniac (Luke) one of us has to be outside in the 90+ degree heat with them at all times. So, how can we make the boys think "read and build" when they are inside. Answer: MONEY, but not reward money but rather bartering money. YOU ARE BRILLIANT JOY!!! (Note: if this is someone else's idea and she read it or stole it, I don't want to know, let me bask in the joy of Joy's greatness darn it).
At the start of each day Joy gives Ethan and Luke 50 cents each with the understanding that they can "buy" a television program for 25 cents. That means they both can buy two shows per day and of course they get to watch sports or a movie with Daddy at night. Joy started this program this week and the immediacy of the change in their habits is astounding. Ethan has worked on his reading (he read an entire Magic Tree House book on Tuesday) and Luke is more eager than ever to work on his reading and hand writing for kindergarten this fall. Not only this, but they both are way more selective about what they watch (how many times can you watch the same Sponge Bob episode?). I actually think they are saving money.
I just wanted to brag on my wife. I love you Joy.
Joy and I have talked about how problematic it is that our kids (especially the oldest) thinks video games and t.v. from the time he wakes up. We have talked about how to change this and the only thing I could think of is "make" them go outside and play more. The only problem with that is that because one of our sons is a maniac (Luke) one of us has to be outside in the 90+ degree heat with them at all times. So, how can we make the boys think "read and build" when they are inside. Answer: MONEY, but not reward money but rather bartering money. YOU ARE BRILLIANT JOY!!! (Note: if this is someone else's idea and she read it or stole it, I don't want to know, let me bask in the joy of Joy's greatness darn it).
At the start of each day Joy gives Ethan and Luke 50 cents each with the understanding that they can "buy" a television program for 25 cents. That means they both can buy two shows per day and of course they get to watch sports or a movie with Daddy at night. Joy started this program this week and the immediacy of the change in their habits is astounding. Ethan has worked on his reading (he read an entire Magic Tree House book on Tuesday) and Luke is more eager than ever to work on his reading and hand writing for kindergarten this fall. Not only this, but they both are way more selective about what they watch (how many times can you watch the same Sponge Bob episode?). I actually think they are saving money.
I just wanted to brag on my wife. I love you Joy.
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3 comments:
Great idea...a friend of mine did something very similar with "TV coupons" and it worked wonderfully. I'm so glad you sent me your link...I've added you to my favs!
That is a great idea. Since I have been home, I have noticed that Davis wants to watch t.v. constantly-Cars movie and Wiggles to be exact. I think that as parents sometimes we do things to just "shut" the kids up for a while, while still knowing that too much of a good thing (i.e. tv) can be bad. (Not that I don't love hearing "toot toot chugga chugga big red car" a million times a day!) Davis is actually pretty good about going outside and doing other things, but a great tip for the future! I wonder if that would work on snacks. Davis wants to eat all the time!
Davy Brumley!! Sorry I'm not used to "Dave" yet--give me time. You never know who you're gonna find online. I've been catching up on your blog and I'm soooo happy for you and your family. It sounds like you guys are doing great!
I totally agree with the too much TV thing. Jody and I lived without cable for about 2 years (well, we had like 3 channels.) I think we were both so much more relaxed and happy without it--well, except for football seaason.
I'm glad I found you, neighbor! I'll check back in often.
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