As they say, change starts at home and I actually think something like a star chart for mommy can help.

There is so much pressure on children (and adults!) to be everything and do everything just right and I think we need to take a stand against that pressure. Seeing your parents as fallible, gives kids permission to admit they are the same. But, here is why I think it is important: first, kids need to see that mommies and daddies make mistakes, that they aren’t perfect and that they too have areas that need improvement. I know it might seem crazy that mommy has her own reward chart on the refrigerator next to the one that’s rewarding Billy for not hitting his brother.

That’s why I think that Mommy needs a star chart too! I think if we are honest with ourselves, we all do. (Don’t worry I can acknowledge that I am a pretty awesome mom too! ) But the point is, I have lots of habits that I want to break. I yell too often, am impatient, forgetful and I am frequently late! I could go on and on about the things I want to work on improving as a mom and in other areas of my life. I confess I am an extremely imperfect mom.

I have seen check lists and sticker charts and even ones with money, toys and treasures attached! Which begs the question, how can moms get in on that action? I want some of the goods too! In fact, I firmly believe that moms should use be using something like star charts for themselves. And no, they aren’t always just for stars. Have you ever noticed that one of the go-to strategies to help kids with behavior change or working toward a goal is using some sort of star chart or rewards based record system? It seems to be the standard in positive reinforcement for kids.

Star reward chart printable free