Should You Pay for Grades?

What really motivates students?

Surprising stats and mom-to-mom tips

A recent poll at financial literacy website, TheMint.org, asked families, "Should parents reward grades?" 

77% of kids (17 and younger) said yes—parents should give rewards

60% of parents age 30 and older agreed

Here’s the nice surprise:
When asked what rewards might offer the biggest incentive for students, 27% of kids ranked “a parent’s praise and encouragement” number-one. The other two motivators to score similarly high were “cash rewards” (25%) and “desired items” such as clothes, games or an iPod (33%).

We posed the same question
to our mom friends on Facebook,
and we liked your comments:

“I [reward] all six of my kids. When they start getting letter grades I pay: $20 for each ‘A,’ $10 for each ‘B,’ and nothing for a ‘C’ or lower.” –Brandy A. 

“As long as all children in the family are treated fairly, I think it can be a good thing…” –Karen M.

“Yes, if the child has been good consistently. ‘A’ students deserve a reward!” –Natalia H. 

“Yes—why not? I give $1 for each ‘A.’” –Katva O.

“I reward with privileges rather than money. In junior high and above I tell my kids that good grades shows maturity worthy of certain privileges that otherwise would not be granted.” –Kathy G.

Are you curious how other local parents weigh in on the issues debated in your house? E-mail your ideas for poll questions, Facebook posts and more to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .