Rewards, punishments and manipulation

[Ladybug]

True. I think I've been bribing and calling it rewards in my mind. I'm going to nip that in the bud when I get home.

[diggitydot]

I don't have a problem with showing kids that desired behavior can bring desired results. Our kids are all older and they have to deal with natural rewards and consequences. Not doing homework = bad grades = extra studying and no TV/games/friends on weekends. Not cleaning bedrooms = not having friends over because bedrooms are gross. Not doing chores when told = doing chores when they want to be doing other fun things. Being an asshole to a sibling = VERY unpleasant things and the loss of ALL privileges outside of breathing.

Essentially, doing what they're supposed to do when they're supposed to do it means they have a much easier and fun life. Half-assing chores means they get to keep doing them until done properly. They learn to do their crap effectively and efficiently pretty quickly.