

Signals of change: Recognizing and supporting learning
13 March, 2025
On the importance of constantly evolving
The Magasin Général is a living tool that grows with our children. Its goal is not to always reward the same behaviors, but to evolve at the pace of learning. This is what we call at Les Belles Combines "the art of scaling" - or the art of gradually adjusting challenges.
The magic of fragmentation
Successful learning is often that which is done gently, in small steps. By breaking down learning, the child progresses almost without realizing it, without having to climb too many big steps all at once. This approach allows him to experience daily successes that fuel his motivation and naturally develop his autonomy.
Concrete example: The meal routine
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3-4 years: Bring your plate back to the counter after the meal
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4-5 years: Empty leftovers into the compost and bring back the dishes
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5-6 years: Put your dishes in the dishwasher
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7-8 years old: Clean your place completely
Signs that it's time for a change
How do you know when a child is ready for new challenges?
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He does the task without having to be reminded
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He shows pride in accomplishment
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He seeks new challenges on his own.
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The current reward doesn't seem as motivating anymore
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He has mastered the skill for several weeks
The principle of constant renewal
The essence of the General Store is based on a simple but powerful principle: as soon as a behavior becomes a habit, we replace it with a new challenge. Thus:
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The child remains engaged and motivated
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He continues to learn and progress
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The reward system still makes sense
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Autonomy develops naturally
How to use the Autonomy Guide
The Guide to Autonomy for Beautiful Combines is the perfect tool for:
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Identify skills to develop according to age
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Follow a logical progression
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Adapt challenges to your child's unique pace
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Maintain constant stimulation
Other examples of fragmented learning
Morning dressing
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2 years: Putting on pants
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3 years old: Put on your sweater
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4 years: Dressing completely alone
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5 years: Prepare your clothes the night before
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6 years: Choose clothes suitable for the temperature
The bath routine
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3 years: Wash your body with help
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4 years old: Soaping yourself
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5 years: Washing hair
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6 years: Managing water temperature
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7 years old: Take a shower independently
The key to success: support and communication
For successful progression:
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Celebrate current successes
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Discuss new goals with enthusiasm
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Involve the child in choosing the next challenges
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Keep track of your progress by checking off the items acquired in the autonomy guide
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Be patient: some learning takes time
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Adapt the steps according to your child and remember that the ages of the levels in the guides are there for information purposes only.
Conclusion
The General Store is not just a rewards system, it is a dynamic tool that evolves with your child. By fragmenting learning and remaining attentive to signals of change, you can support your child in a constant and motivating progression towards autonomy.
Download our Autonomy Guide to accompany you in this wonderful adventure!
🚀 Find this article and much more in the Octave app : shared calendar, collaborative task list, meal planner, centralization of family information and autonomy monitoring - your number 1 ally for an organized family life! 📱✨