Elf Point update

I thought I’d give you an early update on the Elf Point experiment. It’s also an excuse to show all the  finished magnets.

I had so many ideas of the images I wanted to use, I jokingly said that I should increase the target from twenty to thirty. Hmm. If looks could kill…… Maybe not.

The awarding of the points was slow at first, but one by one they are getting the idea. Reaching their first twenty focussed their efforts. They now know that it does not help to ask for a point, or use it as a bargaining method (“If I do it can I have an Elf point?”). There are occasions where I can see them modifying their behaviour. Other times teamwork is a natural event.

I think my challenge is spotting the good moments and rewarding them straight away. Also being consistent.

Today was a red letter moment. AJ had been really helpful getting us out of the door for school. So impressed by her willingness to help me and also to see what needed doing, that I awarded her a point. I was waiting for an outburst from BL. There was silence, then eventually, in a matter of fact voice, she let me know that she didn’t mind her big sister winning a point and not her. Why? Well it meant that the children are one point nearer to getting their target. At the young age of 6, BL understands the system. She gets it. It’s about working as a team and not against. It’s not a competition between the children. Everyone is winning, including me. (little dance of joy)

One extra use, that had not occurred to me, is using them to make stories. AJ and I spent one lunch time coming up with different stories for the magnets that had already been won. Very similar to the painted story stones that we made this year. The children love arranging the magnets in different patterns.

Looking at the magnets, I know I made mistakes. Like using cream thread and not white for the Christmas hare. I made this at night and I should know it is not the best light to decide. Also the angel’s face is not as I wanted, but I left it, as I did not want to make more holes in the felt. The children love her, so that counts as a success to me. I liked using french knots for the angel’s hair and the elf’s beard. The magnets are good fun and the children are about to collect all twenty for the second time. Even if we don’t run this experiment again next year, I’m enjoying decorating the fridge with my festive magnets/ Elf points!

Edited: forgot to say that AJ made the present elf point. I’m so pleased she felt (no pun intended) inspired to make it.