"Just shower the people you love with love
Show them the way that you feel"

Shower the People by James Taylor

Hi Reader,

Last week we dove into using Logical Consequences with kids...but what about motivating them?

Motivation is a great way to prevent trouble and keep your kiddo excited to learn. There's two types of motivation:

• Intrinsic motivation = doing something because it feels good or meaningful (think: reading for fun, finishing a puzzle just to see it complete).
• Extrinsic motivation = doing something for a reward or to avoid a consequence (think: earning a prize, collecting points, or avoiding a timeout).

Intrinsic motivation is what most people are aiming for. It’s what we hope kids will develop longterm.

But intrinsic motivation only works if the person really deeply understands why something is good for them / the world.

But in the last few weeks of school? That's a hard sell! Sometimes, it’s okay to lean on the extrinsic stuff.

If your child is dragging their feet or struggling to stay regulated- a sticker chart, prizes, or “Friday ice cream” might be just what they need.

They’ve worked hard! All year they've showed up, tried their best, and followed directions. That’s a big deal! 🎉

The shift into summer break is is a transitional time. Once summer hits and routines shift, you can reset and return to your usual parenting style.

Just remember: you’re still in charge.

You’ve got this. One day sticker at a time 😊

What's New?

🎂 B Day Fun: Last weekend my husband and 6 friends went to Folly Beach to celebrate his birthday. It was a blast! We planned so many surprises for him- I can't believe I kept it all a secret! Highlights were backyard hibachi, tiki drinks, and the perfect weather.

Things I Love

🦊 Nonfiction: I've been using these Buddy Readers with one of my kindergarten tutoring buddies. Available Levels A - F (roughly kindergarten through mid first grade), these books have cute illustrations and lovable characters.

📚 Screen free Summer Reading: Hot Dots are back! I remember using these in elementary school. Your child reads a work and then presses the pen on a "hot dot" to see if they got it right. There are versions for pre-k, k, and 1st grader. Great way to reinforce phonics skills and reading without downloading an app.

☀️ No sunburn summer: I tried this everyday sunscreen at the recommendation of a friend. It was lightweight, odorless, and pretty affordable. Right now it's $5 off!​

Have a great week, and remember- you deserve an ice cream too 😜🍦