Ask an Educator – February 2026

Dear Educator,

It’s mid-school year, and my prize box isn’t working as well as a behavior management incentive. What can I do to keep the kids motivated and on track?

Dear Concerned Teacher,

Great question! It’s common for prize boxes to lose their appeal over time. Students get used to the rewards, and the novelty fades. Here are a few strategies to refresh your approach:

1. Shift to Intrinsic Motivation: Instead of tangible prizes, focus on recognition and responsibility. Try “Student of the Day” shout-outs, leadership roles, special call home or special privileges that your particular class will appreciate whether its extra credit on a test, or sitting near the air conditioner.
2. Introduce Reward Choices: Choice often feels more empowering than a fixed prize. Give students options like extra recess minutes, a homework pass, or time for a favorite activity.
3. Use Social Incentives: Peer accountability can boost engagement. Create team challenges where the whole class works toward a goal, like earning a class party or themed day.
4. Gamify Behavior: Tap into the natural love of progress and achievement. Turn routines into games, tracking points for positive behaviors and let students “level up” (meaning, advance to a higher level in gaming language) to earn privileges.
5. Refresh the Prize Box: If you want to keep the prize box, rotate items regularly and include non-material rewards like Choose your Own Seat Pass, Extended Deadline Pass or Lunch in a Special Location.

Behavior management works best when it’s tailored to the specific students, tapping into their interests and what they value. Using social incentives reinforces the worthwhile concept that good behavior is rewarding in many ways, not just with stuff.

For more tips and ideas please reach out to the JES helpline.