“Reward your kids with things they get to do instead of things they get to have.”
This quote is a powerful reminder that experiences often have a deeper impact than objects, not only for children at home, but also for our students in the classroom.
In teaching, rewards are often stickers, points, or small items… but experience-based rewards can be far more meaningful:
✨ a special classroom job
✨ a moment of one-on-one time with the teacher
✨ choosing an activity
✨ picking their partner for a task
✨ presenting something to the class
✨ extra time for a project they love
✨ a responsibility that makes them feel valued
These kinds of experiences build autonomy, motivation, and a strong sense of belonging.
What about you?
How do you reward your students without using objects?
Which experiences or privileges have worked well in your classroom or learning context?
I would love to hear what you do with your students.
Very interesting :) My name is Mohamad-Ali, and I work as a Mindfulness-Based SEL Resilience Specialist with training in mindfulness and psychology. I support students, athletes, educators, and parents in reducing stress, improving emotional well-being, and reconnecting with themselves through breath, movement, and reflective practice. My passion is building school communities where everyone feels seen, supported, and able to grow with resilience and compassion.