If you would love to know how I got my student's full attention by setting up a cheap and easy incentive program, continue reading till the end!
Most adults are motivated by money, while children are motivated by candy!
Even though the 'candy prize' concept is not new, the beautiful display of treats is a game changer!
As a little girl, I was encouraged to pay attention during Church with the promise of a reward.
In my mind, it was something I desperately wanted but couldn't buy on my own.
The Church Choir Director, Ms. S, would have all the children line up after Church. She asked us questions about what we learned that day, and if we answered correctly, we got to pick a bubble gum blow pop (my fav was the green apple).
I don't remember how it all started, but I do remember the excitement of earning that piece of candy.
The chance of winning candy meant so much to me that I began to pay closer attention during church, and I was thoroughly disappointed when Ms. S was absent.
When I first became a Sunday school teacher in my late 20's, I took on a class where the students lacked excitement and attention; their learning expectations had become routine.
I needed to excite them, motivate them, and get them engaged in class again.
God reminded me of my childhood experience with Ms. S, and it inspired this DIY Children's Treat Basket.
The genius idea behind the treat basket is keeping a constant reminder of potential rewards visible and obtainable for all students who are willing to apply themselves.
This made a huge difference!
Students knew it was my day to teach when they saw the beautiful basket, and they expected a fun Sunday school.
Supplies:
1. Willow Basket: Find these at a local craft store, resale shop, or online ($4)
2. Decorative Filler: Used to help items stand up, they come in various colors. ($3)
3. Decorations: Use artificial flowers, ribbons, beads, etc. for an eye-catching display. ($5)
4. Adhesives: Hot glue gun or spray adhesives work well. ($2)
5. Treats: Use a variety of personal size candy, healthy snacks, toys, or privileges. ($10)
Time to put it all together!
Step 1: Decorate it!
Once you've found the right size basket for your classroom treats, you're ready to decorate it.
I used ribbons and artificial flowers found at the dollar store. I attached them with hot glue.
Step 2: Fill the basket!
Use crinkle paper, shredded tissue, or foil filler at the bottom of the basket to fill it up, giving the illusion of an overstuffed basket.
Step 3: Add Treats!
I started off using personal and shareable sized candy, and the students loved it! Eventually, I replaced some items with healthy snacks and small toy items, and the parents loved that!
How to use
1. Choose gifts you know the students will enjoy. (Don't be afraid to ask them)
2. Bring your basket to every class and make sure it's visibly the entire time. (Some children may try to guess what's in the basket, but I prefer to keep it a mystery)
3. Let the kids know at the start of class that you will be asking questions after the lesson. The first person to answer correctly will be the first to pick out of the basket.
4. If possible, limit the number of questions you ask so that the children can compete, and you won't run out of the expensive candy so quickly.
5. Let each winner choose their item out of the basket one at a time. This eliminates fussing over the choice selection.
6. Unless you have prior permission from the parents, please don't allow the students to eat their treats in class, because it can ruin their appetite.
Results
Students are excited to learn
Welcomes competitiveness
Students are attentive during class
Display of satisfactory behavior
Becoming the most popular teacher among the students
Alternative Rewards
If food is not an option in your classroom, try out these excellent motivators:
Class Activity Day (painting, DIY slime, puzzles)
Stickers
Inexpensive toys
Certificate of Achievement
Classroom privileges (student helper, teacher assistant, a monitor)
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