The Kindness "Bops"

YES! It works! Wahoo! Have you ever had those days with your child where you feel like all you've done is discipline? Not a lot of laughter or silliness, just "no's" and "don't do thats!" Scott and I have felt like that lately. Jackson hit two and a half and decided that it was time to see who was in control. We didn't like that all it seemed we were doing was disciplining him. So, I put my teacher brain to work and came up with the kindness box (or kindness bops as Jack calls it). I took a kleenex box and let Jack decorate it so he had some ownership. Every time Jackson does a kind act or makes a good choice, Scott or I write it down and place the note in the box. Now, we don't write down every little thing. We are focusing on being kind to our friends, listening to mommy and daddy, following directions, going potty all on his own without being asked or needing help, etc. If he gets 5 notes in his box at the end of the day he gets a sticker on his chart. Once he fills up a week's worth of stickers (one row on his chart) he gets to pick a prize out of the treasure box (dollar store type items). I must give my mom credit for the treasure box. I had it as a kid and LOVED it!!!

Anyway, can I just tell you that Scott and I now have a brand new kid! He's always been a good kid and fun to be around but now he's just an even better "version" of himself. He is so full of joy and laughter ALL the time and so are we. He desires to do kind deeds to earn that note and is SO very proud of himself when we read the notes at the end of the day. He enjoys helping others and making good choices and I must say that I have gotten more kisses and hugs in the past two weeks than ever before. I LOVE that Jackson is learning about kindness, how to respect and be kind to others, and how to make good choices. This is one of the best ideas I have EVER used! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it! Most importantly, Scott and I LOVE that we are enjoying Jackson again not just disciplining him! I am so proud of my little man and cannot wait to see how these lessons now transfer to him being a big brother!