It’s easier said than done, especially when life is so hectic, but be patient – there will be ups and downs.

“Monitor whether the behaviors you want to see have increased, like putting away toys after playing,” recommends Barbara.

“If you don’t see any benefit after constantly trying, it may not be the right approach or reward for your child.”

And if it doesn’t work, reframe it. Your child can’t do something yet – he hasn’t made a deliberate choice not to do it.

“Sometimes, even when we have good intentions, we can expect too much from a child who isn’t ready,” says Barbara.

“Some children can be very sensitive to demands and may be perceived as difficult. But this could be due to sensitivities or a neurodivergence this has not yet been identified. Maybe the rewards aren’t for them and they need a different type of approach.