the weekend ended with hardly an argument between their children.

Positive consequences, or rewards, can be an effective parenting tool for increasing the positive behavior of children. As a natural part of daily life, rewards are given for behavior we would like to see again.

Parents who only give negative consequences run the risk of becoming a negative consequence themselves. On the other hand, parents who give positive consequences find that their children enjoy spending time with them more than if they always receive negative consequences. Make a list of what your children enjoy such as certain activities, possessions, special events, or people, and write those preferences on a sheet of paper. Keep the list handy until you know which positive consequences work with your child.

Concentrate on rewards that cost little or nothing. Positive attention, praise and encouragement are some of the most effective consequences a parent can use. And, they don't cost a cent!