Parenting The ADD Child: Using Token Economics

You can also try using token economics. This is a tool that is often used in schools to promote good behavior. Some parents feel that it is ridiculous to rewarding a child for behavior that they should be exhibiting anyway.

But the truth is that ADHD kids benefit from having some sort of positive reinforcement such as rewards. It gives them something tangible to hold onto and something to look forward to.

Keep in mind that ADHD children have a tough time controlling their own behavior. Their head might be telling them to “behave”, but their disorder prevents them from doing so.

Setting up a system to use in the classroom and at home for children to earn points they can exchange for other rewards or privileges – such as computer time or an activity – can
provide kids with great incentive to adjust behavior.

You should also involve the child by allowing him or her to develop a list of rewards to choose from. These should be activities that he enjoys, such as watching TV, spending time with friends, etc. Or they can be exchanged for a predetermined amount of cash or some other material reward.

This method worked so well for my kids, that when because of a very hectic schedule, I stopped using the token system, my kids begged to have it reinstated.

It's amazing how, through using tokens, kids regulate their own behavior. The G.O.L.D Standard is the method that I used and I highly recommend.