Parents, too, know that rewarding good behavior is a great way to promote responsibility.

In Palm Bay, Florida, Teresa Martinez issues “mommy checks” to reward her kids. The checks look like regular checks. They are issued when her kids demonstrate responsible behavior.

Her children receive checks for picking up after themselves without mom or dad reminding them. If they complete their chores or have been really good at school, they also receive a check. Whenever her kids do something responsible, she writes, “we reward them with a check that gives them something special.”

The checks offer rewards that are tailored to a child’s particular interests. One child may receive a check good for a paperback at the bookstore. Another may enjoy a check good for a two-hour delay in bedtime.

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