A little background about Money Summer!

I just wanted to let you know how Money Summer came about.  My middle child, Isaac, struggles with anger and behavior issues.  While at the developmental pediatrician, I was asking for ideas for helping him learn how to manage his anger and frustration.  The doctor asked what things he played with at home.  I replied that he loved to play outside.  She then asked if he liked to play video games or watch tv.  Isaac and my oldest Aubry have never been very interested in tv and video games.  We have both at home, but they will only do either for about 30 minutes a day at the max.  The doctor said we definitely do not want to take away outside play time, so then she asked if he liked money.  Isaac loves money and counting money - so I replied "Yes, he loves money."  She said if it is feasable financially to give him 4 quarters every day.   If he has an anger or frustration outburst to have him give you a quarter.  I thought this was a great idea. 

So, the first day of summer I implemented what I call Money Summer! I got each kid a cute little can from the dollar spot at Target (btw - I love that place)!  Wrote their names on the front with black marker because that was all I could find at the house.  (Art supplies tend to disappear at my house.)  Every day I put in 4 quarters in each bucket and when they get enough they can trade it in for dollar bills or even bigger bills as the summer goes on.  Whatever JJ (the 3 year old) makes, I will put in his bank account since he is too young for this, but I thought it was a good way to save for him. 

So far Aubry and Isaac have lost a few quarters for being sassy, being mean to each other. not listening right away, and not keeping control of anger.  The most they have lost in 1 day is 2 quarters and they each even had a couple days where they lost none - YAY!!  Although, I'm sure my patience level of each day has something to do with this.