How to Implement A Points Based Reward System for Chores

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Looking to implement a points based reward system for chores? Learn the 3 things you need in order to implement a points based reward system for chores along with why to use it and how to get started.

A points based rewards system for chores does not have to be complicated or costly. Three things are needed to implement a points based rewards system for chores. Basically, the kiddos get a set number of points for doing X chore and they lose a set number of points for not doing X chore. The items that they get points or lose points for can be unique to each individual kid. Also make sure to include a system with the established rules so everyone understands.

How to Implement A Points Based Reward System for Chores

Why a points based rewards system? Well for our family it allows us to reward good things (i.e. getting chores and homework done) in a clear and fair way. But also allows us to punish bad things (i.e. fighting about chores or refusing to do them) without yelling or corporal punishment which we do not support. As an added bonus it also teaches the kiddos about saving and spending.

To implement a points based reward system for chores you need a couple of things.

• Firstly a clearly established set of rules/requirements for the kids to follow.
• A chore chart for tracking completion or lose of points
• Finally a reward chart

Rules and Requirements

To establish the rules and requirements of the reward system, I suggest you hold a family meeting. In the meeting you can discuss why chores are important, which chores each member of the household is responsible for, etc.

For instance here is what we discussed in our family meeting.

• Why chores are important.
  • Keeping the house clean.
  • Learning life skills.
  • Teaching responsibility and how to take care of our things.
• What chore each member is responsible for.
  • Keep a list to make into a chore chart later.
• What the rules and requirements for each chore would be.
  • This included how to receive full points and what would make them lose points.
    • For example if they do the chore with no complaints and limited reminding they get the full point(s).
    • But if they complain about the chore or have to be hounded to do it points will be deducted.
    • Finally how they can get partial points.
  • Make sure to take detailed notes in order to refresh or remind someone later.
• How many points each chore should be worth.
• What kinds of rewards should be offered.
  • It’s a good idea to know what the kids would like before you purchase rewards.

Chore Chart

There are many chore charts you can download from Pinterest. Or you can follow my tutorial here and create a customized one for each family member.

A few things to keep in mind on a chore chart.

• Don’t make it too complicated or no one will use it.
• Make sure to include point values for each chore.
• Keep it in a visible place so everyone can see it and reference it.

Reward chart

A reward chart or The Mom Store as I call it needs to include a list of rewards and how many points each reward is worth. Each week the kids can cash the points out for tiny rewards or save them up for bigger rewards. Our rewards range from a single piece of candy (i.e. miniature Reese’s cup, Laffy Taffy, etc) for 10 points to a date with parent of choice for 100 points.

Here are a few examples of rewards:

• Small individual wrapped candy.
• Extra TV, computer, tablet, or video game time.
• Later bedtime on the weekend or holiday.
• Picking out a movie or show to watch.
• A small toy. I like to divide big toy sets into small prizes. For instance a couple pieces of Lego bricks in individual bags or a single Hatchimals egg.
• Money.
• Special snack or drink.
• Special activity.

After you have completed the three things needed to create a points based rewards system for chores you get to use it. Hold another family meeting and let everyone know that the new system is ready to go and when it will begin. Place chore charts and reward charts in a sheet protector and hang up. Use a dry erase marker to track completed/missed chores. Total points weekly and allow kids to pick rewards.

As you can see a points based rewards system for chores does not have to be complicated or costly. Three simple things are needed to implement a points based rewards system for chores. Firstly a clear set of rules and requirements. Next a chore chart to track the completion of the chores. Finally a reward chart to cash in the points.

Have a great day!

Brandi

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