EP 47 | Using Rewards Without Wrecking Intrinsic Motivation: What Actually Works

Stickers. Marble jars. Token systems. Oh my!

They're everywhere in early childhood - and for good reason. Rewards often work - but what are they really teaching children? And what if we’re using them in ways that create more problems down the track?

In this episode, I unpack the biggest myths about rewards and give you six practical, research-aligned ways to use them without crushing motivation, connection, or community.

You’ll hear: 

🪄The problem with how rewards are often studied (and what’s missing from the data).

🪄Three myths about rewards that just won’t die (and why they’re so sticky).

🪄 Six practical ways to use rewards well, without relying on bribes or behaviour scripts.

🪄The difference between “supporting behaviour” and “controlling it.”

🪄 Why praise matters and how to use it to build self-worth, not just win approval.

Whether you’re pro, anti, or somewhere in the murky middle, this episode will give you clarity and confidence to use rewards with intention; not just habit.

Helpful links

Download my free guide Navigating Rewards When You’re Expected to Use Reward Systems

Purchase my Behaviour Bites guide More Than “Good Job”: A Practical Guide to Praise That Builds Lifelong Learners

Let's Connect!

Want to feel joy in your teaching again (and not like you're spending every moment putting out behaviour spot fires)? Join the waitlist for my course: The Behaviour Reset

Want to know how to respond to baffling behaviours better? Download my free guide with 90 behaviour scripts

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