Positive points earn privileges, while negative points make it more difficult to earn privileges. Education is also a tool. The children attend public school, and academic success plays a large role in providing life skills. It is amazing if they improve in their academics how it improves their self-esteem. If they feel good about themselves they can interact with people and be successful in a job or in college.
Religion is another tool.
The children attend the church of their family teachers, and the benefits are apparent. They are not required to participate in church youth groups, but Lapinski estimates 95 percent of the kids choose this option. They really get involved in their church. A lot of these youth have never been to church on a regular basis. Both young women who will graduate June 2 have been with Children's Home for at least five years.