Sweet Motivators

A veteran teacher once told us first year teachers that "You should spend at least $300 on candy each year" as a form of classroom management.  I thought she was crazy.  She was dead serious.

Over $100 later, I totally understand.  I doubt I will EVER drop $300 a year on candy, but I do understand why she does it, even though there is a part of me that fundamentally thinks it is wrong to bribe children to answer questions or do the right thing.  If used sparingly, candy rewards can turn the entire class period around.  Here are my candy procedures.  You may or may not want to follow them.

1. ALWAYS have candy on hand.  You never know when you will need it.

2. ONLY allow kids to eat candy in your room if YOU give it to them.  If they are allowed to bring in their own or carry it over from another class, your reward will be old news.  A tootsie roll won't look enticing if they are already working with a bag of skittles.  On the other hand, a candy-less kiddo will do just about anything to earn a piece of that chocolatey taffy weirdness. #perspective. 

3. NEVER reward students for simply following an everyday class procedure....unless you want to intentionally leave a few students out for messing around.  Sound mean? It is.  But I betcha those kiddos tow the line the next day!

4. When giving candy for correct answers, do NOT cave and give candy to the entire class each time.  Because honestly, did they alllllll really earn it?  Next time they might not even try if they know you are a softy. 

5. (This is my Common Core Candy Standard) Make sure that the answers they provide are thorough and based on evidence.  You infer that the character is angry?  What's your evidence?  Partial answers do not earn a super juicy Starburst.  They just don't. 

6. Don't give candy out during a review game.  They're already playing a game.  Seriously.  They should thank their lucky stars they aren't doing a worksheet.  Having bragging rights is way better than candy anyway. 

7. ALWAYS test the candy for quality of taste.  I find that planning periods work well for this step.  It also allows you the privacy of stuffing your face without shame. 

8. Keep them on their toes.  Throw a few sour candies in a bag of sweet candies for some interesting reactions. :)

Have a good one!

-Mrs. Combs