Age group(s) for which this technique is helpful:
Elementary School
Middle School
High School & Beyond

Primarily used to improve behavior:
At Home
At School

Instructions for using this technique:
Children receive tokens (ex. poker chips) when they accomplish certain goals or behave in a positive way. For example, if your child refuses to keep a clean room, she may receive tokens when she cleans her room without having to be told. The system can be modified to make it an appropriate technique for both young and older kids. Younger kids can help make a poster-sized chart to be kept on the wall that will allow them to see the positive and negative results of their behaviors. For older kids, a ledger sheet with credits and debits (similar to a checking account) can be kept more privately to avoid embarrassing them in front of friends.

Other information parents should consider before using this technique:
This technique should not be used with children who have serious oppositional disorder or who might react violently. Consult your family counselor or psychiatrist if you have any concerns.