Table Topics Updated daily!
May 16, 2008
Mind-stretching brain games and
conversation starters.
It's the perfect opportunity for sharing stories, building knowledge,
strengthening character, and having fun!
Living In A Society – Operant Conditioning
Operant conditioning can be defined as the systematic
use of consequences to strengthen and weaken behaviors.
We stop at a red light because good consequences
result-we will get our turn when the light is
green, people stay safe. We stop at a red light
because bad consequences could result if we didn't-the
police might catch us and give us a ticket, cars
might crash.
Teaching children the expectations of living
in a society through operant conditioning is something
parents and teachers do without thinking. However,
adults can sometimes forget that children aren't
born knowing the rules of life. In addition, what
might seem like logical consequences to an adult
can seem like random acts to a child.
Discuss behaviors that are rewarded or punished
in your child's life. What are the rules at home
or at school? What are the consequences of breaking
the rules? What are the rewards for following
the rules? Children who take part in determining
rules and consequences are much more likely to
adhere to those rules.
Setting Rules and Consequences with Teens
You can find more information about operant conditioning
here:
Operant Conditioning
Operant Conditioning (B.F. Skinner)
Children Love Routines
Communication Skills –
Was That A Question, Or Was It A Hint?
Do you know someone who asks questions instead
of saying what they are thinking? See if this
sounds familiar.
"Let's go camping this year for our vacation."
"Don't you think it will be too cold?"
Is it possible that person number two in this
conversation doesn't want to go camping? Consider
these different responses to the same question.
"I'm not a person who cares much for camping.
I would rather stay at a resort."
Or
"I love camping, but not in January!"
Think about it. Do you ask questions instead
of stating your thoughts? Practice saying how
you feel. You will probably find people easier
to get along with!
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