Chore Chart and Reward Coupons

One way that we try to promote responsibility and to get our children involved in helping around the house is to have a hanging chore chart. We also like to have a reward system in place. My children are young so they do chores that they are capable of doing on their own. For example, they may be asked to set the table, clean their room, or make their bed. I try not to put too much pressure on them to finish their chores because I want them to learn to be responsible. Instead I try using positive reinforcement with praise and a reward system.

I purchased this wooden, magnetic chore chart from Bed, Bath, and Beyond, and I have truly been happy with it. It has a variety of magnetic rectangles with a certain chore written and pictured on it. In addition to the chores there are magnets to help improve behaviors like "Say Please and Thank You." The chart also includes circle smiley faces with words of encouragement like “You did it!” There are two blank ones that you can write on, too. I am thinking about making some of my own chore magnets to add to the collection.

 The actual chart was probably meant for one child, but it has enough space and chore magnets to work for all three of my children. Right now the older children have 3 chores and my youngest has just one. You can assign fewer or more chores for your children. We change out the chores each week. I usually let them choose at least one that they want to do for that week. Once they complete a chore they can add a smiley magnet for that day.

We do have busy days when a couple or all the chores are left undone. Again, I don’t stress over it. Sometimes they initiate extra chores to “make-up” missed ones all by themselves. We also take Sundays off from chores.

Often my son will help my husband with outdoor chores or he will go the extra mile in cleaning. When he does this my husband or I will let him knock off a chore for the following day to show our appreciation.

I made these reward coupons that the children can work towards earning at the end of the week. Printable reward coupons will be below...Just download and print!

Kid's Reward Coupons Printable (Page 1)
Kid's Reward Coupons Printable (Page 2)

 Reward coupons, allowances, special treats, or doing something fun on the weekend are different ways that we reward the children and encourage them to do their weekly chores. How do you encourage your own children to complete their chores?