A child's own motivation to complete a task, not motivation generated from rewards like snacks.
- Appropriate use of rewards is extremely important in this age
- If rewards are given (items/praises), it should be on the child's effort for the task, not the quality of the completed task. By focusing on accomplishment, the absence of reward in later tasks can lead the child to feel inadequate. Child may focus on comparing self with others.
- Reward when necessary. If they are rewarded on task that they are interested, they will perceive that doing tasks are for rewards and not because the activity is fun.
- Activities provided for children should have the correct amount of challenge and to engage curiosity.
- Appropriate activities: Different sizes items, toys of items around children, fit-in pieces, more complex puzzles, puppets, picture bingo, matching games, climbing structures, realistic ride-on toys
Source:
http://winslerlab.gmu.edu/pubs/CarltonWinsler98.pdf
