Motivating Kids Toward Growth During Summer

[bkoz]

I have 5 kids between the ages of 13 and 6 who, if there are no outside influences, will go in into “slug” mode during the summer months. I am trying to put together a “rewards” program where they can earn time on their electronics by doing certain things. If this is the only way for them to have access to their electronics I have a pretty good shot at getting their cooperation. Here is an example of some things I am thinking about:
• Memorize a prayer (like Prayer to St Michael or Memorare) +1 hour
• Read a chapter from the Bible +15 minutes
• I have lots of apologetics resources they could watch or listen to +30 minutes
• I also have some good videos about creation vs. evolution +30 minutes
• Write a report about a saint +1 hour
• Take a run +15 minutes per mile
• Read important historical documents like the Declaration of Independence
• Do an act of service

And I am not talking about rewarding for chores or other responsibilities. Those are already expected.

So what other ideas? Feel free to get very specific about specific books/videos/websites/activities etc. you might recommend

 

[TheRealJuliane]

Are you mom, or dad?

Is this the first time you have ever asked them for this kind of religious performance in exchange for access to their games and other screens? If so, expect resistance. Especially from the 13 year old. Which will then filter down to the rest of them.

If your kids have worked hard during the school year, I would not be forcing them to do these things all summer. They are not going to do it willingly nor joyfully, “Oh, Dear Mother, OF COURSE I will read the Scriptures, with a happy heart! Anything to please you, Mother Dear!”

 

[bkoz]

Are you mom, or dad?

Is this the first time you have ever asked them for this kind of religious performance in exchange for access to their games and other screens?

I am the dad. This is not the first time they will have been asked to do any of these things. We try to do many of them already. But during the summer when they have much more idle time I thought it would be good if they were motivated and took more initiative.

If so, expect resistance. Especially from the 13 year old. Which will then filter down to the rest of them.

The 13 year old is actually the more likely to embrace this. I am thinking that he could have the opposite effect and be a good role model for the others to follow.

 

[TheRealJuliane]

I am the dad. This is not the first time they will have been asked to do any of these things. We try to do many of them already. But during the summer when they have much more idle time I thought it would be good if they were motivated and took more initiative.

The 13 year old is actually the more likely to embrace this. I am thinking that he could have the opposite effect and be a good role model for the others to follow.

Well, then, Dad, go for it!



It’s your territory, you’re the leader of your family. You decide, they carry out the mission.