Last week I shared our family’s method of teaching and reinforcing good table manners with our placemat and report kit [which you can order HERE]. We’ve been using this system for nearly two months now and our kids have been very motivated to do well, earn their “stars,” and accumulate points. At the moment they’re working together to save up for a whole-family reward rather than turning in their points separately [we'll see if that lasts amidst so many temptations!]
I thought it might be helpful for you to see what kind of rewards we have up for grabs. We sat down with our kids and brainstormed some ideas together to make sure the things on the list would be appealing to them. My husband and I attached the points based on what we thought was appropriate, but obviously there’s a lot of room for latitude and preference here [remember that our system allows for earning a possible 30 points per dinner].
You’ll notice that some of our rewards are location-specific, so just making a copy of my sheet probably won’t help your family…although you’re welcome to do so if you happen to be near me!
download or view my reward list
Points are collected by using a paper “reward jar” [see below]. We write the names of each of our kids in each section of the jar and list their nightly star totals underneath, creating a “bank” of points. Using a Vis-A-Vis marker allows you record AND erase points in each kids’ section IF the paper is laminated or affixed to the fridge with clear contact paper [HINT: if you cut the contact paper slightly larger than the paper it sticks it to your fridge door AND allows for easy erasing].
download or view my 3-kid Reward Jar
If you’re so busy you think your calendar might implode and would like me to design your reward list or jar, please visit my Etsy store!
Do you use rewards with your kids? What motivates the little ones in your home?
