My friend Juli gave me this idea a long time ago. She had a point system for the children when they would do chores they could earn prizes from the prize box or go on a special outing. Money is super tight in my home so I came up with rewards that do not cost anything at all but the kids were super excited about it. (Keep in mind that we rarely watch TV or play video games in our home.)
Then to encourage a good attitude when doing the chores I have bonus opportunities for doing things the first time they are asked or better yet doing chores without me asking at all!!!
It has almost been one week since I restarted this point system and this is what I have observed so far…
- Better attitudes when I ask for help.
- Quicker response when I ask the first time.
- More willingness to help.
- The kids secretly agreeing to work together to do a chore so that they both get extra points & get it done faster.
- The kids encouraging each other to do something the first time I say anything.
- Things getting done without me saying anything! I love it & always make sure to say "Thank you for doing…" even if I know they are doing it for extra points.
I am loving this good attitude & I hope it continues for a LONG time! :)
Below is our family's list of ways to earn & redeem points. Hope it works for your family too!
EARN Points:
BONUS +1 Do things the first time you are asked
BONUS +2 Do things without being asked
+1 Do Simple Chores (clean your room, pick up your toys, put away clothes, gather trash, throw out trash, dish rack, sort laundry, take down laundry, fold clothes, dust OR sort recycling)
+1 Do ALL homework (finished is when mommy signs your homework folder)
+3 Harder chores (wash all dishes, sweep, wet swiffer, vacuum, clean sink, toilet, tub, OR wipe walls/cabinets)
+3 Help cook dinner
+5 Help wash the car
+5 Organize something
+8 Laundry - Wash & hang
REDEEM Points
5 points - Eat an extra candy or treat
5 points - Drink another cup of Juice
10 points - Eat ice cream when you want
25 points - Choose a Netflix movie to watch
25 points - 1 hour on the computer
25 points - 1 hour on the Wii
35 points - Choose a craft to make w/ Mommy
35 points - Choose a game to play w/ Mommy
45 points - Do a science experiment w/ Mommy
45 points - Bake a treat of your choice w/ Mommy
50 points - Mommy do one of your chores for you
50 points - Go to the pool or beach
100 points - A date with Mommy
200 points - Have a party with friends (theme or holiday party)
300 points - A friend can sleepover