If you’ve ever promised ice cream in exchange for good behavior (haven’t we all?), you know how tempting bribes can be. But research shows they can erode trust, fuel power struggles, and shift your child’s motivation from internal to external. Over time, kids start asking, “What do I get if I do it?”—instead of building the self-motivation and confidence they need to thrive.
Based on the work of Alfie Kohn (Punished by Rewards) and Positive Discipline strategies, this guide offers a clear explanation of why bribes don’t work long-term—and what to do instead.
Inside the Guide:
The real difference between bribes and positive reinforcement
What Alfie Kohn teaches about internal motivation and long-term development
4 hidden consequences of using bribes—and how they show up in everyday parenting
Encouraging alternatives that build intrinsic motivation and mutual respect
Sample scripts and real-life examples to help you shift your language and mindset
What to say before the grocery store, at cleanup time, or during a morning struggle
Perfect for parents of children 18-months+
Need help implementing this? Book a coaching session.
If you’ve ever promised ice cream in exchange for good behavior (haven’t we all?), you know how tempting bribes can be. But research shows they can erode trust, fuel power struggles, and shift your child’s motivation from internal to external. Over time, kids start asking, “What do I get if I do it?”—instead of building the self-motivation and confidence they need to thrive.
Based on the work of Alfie Kohn (Punished by Rewards) and Positive Discipline strategies, this guide offers a clear explanation of why bribes don’t work long-term—and what to do instead.
Inside the Guide:
The real difference between bribes and positive reinforcement
What Alfie Kohn teaches about internal motivation and long-term development
4 hidden consequences of using bribes—and how they show up in everyday parenting
Encouraging alternatives that build intrinsic motivation and mutual respect
Sample scripts and real-life examples to help you shift your language and mindset
What to say before the grocery store, at cleanup time, or during a morning struggle
Perfect for parents of children 18-months+
Need help implementing this? Book a coaching session.
