Some people may not agree using things such as certificates and stickers is a good way of motivating children to do well at school. Then again, there are also those who believe using simple tactics like giving a pupil school stickers when they have worked hard can have a great effect not only on that individual child but on their classmates too as they become more determined to succeed.
So what are the benefits of using certificates and other items to reward pupils when they have exceeded expectations? In addition, can using items such as stickers to promote healthy competition in the classroom be beneficial for all children?

Some experts agree this tactic should not really be used for very young children in the first years of their educational experience. Handing out stickers to one five year old and not to her classmate who sits next to her could actually have the opposite effect to promoting healthy competition as she would probably become very jealous and a fight could even break out.

For children of the right age some competition within the classroom can be a good thing. Some of the advantages may include the following:

•    Pupils are more likely to become more active and involved in activities if they realise there is a potential prize or reward at the end.
•    The idea of fun is promoted in the classroom so learning becomes more enjoyable and seems less of a chore for the children.
•    If the ‘game’ or activity is done within groups, it can help children understand how to work better within a team setting.
•    All children regardless of their academic abilities will become more motivated to succeed.
•    Some pupils will work better under pressure or if they know there is a potential reward at the end.