Pavlov's Checkmark App

We've had ongoing behavior challenges with our kids, so I called my friend who has a Ph.D in Behavior Analysis to ask for some advice.

He recommended we try a token system – we give our kids tiny rewards each day once they earn enough tokens.

By doing this, we're conditioning them to expect rewards for desirable behavior. In other words – Pavlov was right and people really do respond to incentives.

The token system

The token system is working well. We do 20 checkmarks per day and each morning discuss the reward our kids will be working toward for the day. Then, they get checkmarks throughout the day as we notice good behavior.

It’s common for one of them to say “is this something I can earn a checkmark for?” While we were traveling for the weekend, my son noticed that his checkmarks card was missing from the day. The system has definitely helped them focus on behavior and given us a visual aid as we encourage them to make good choices.

A tiny web app

The problem we ran into was that keeping track of a sheet of paper for checkmarks wasn't working. Especially since we both want to be able to give checkmarks in the moment. Since we always have our phones, I made a quick app which allows us to keep increment the number of checks they’ve earned in real time on our phone. It even has confetti when the checks are all complete for a little extra joy at the end of the day.

Want to try it, too? As of now, it's just my wife and me using it. If you want to try it with your kids, email me at [email protected] and I’ll get you set up for free.

P.S. Thanks to Billy Edwards of Clemson Center for Behavior Analysis for the recommendation on the token system! So grateful!