‘The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more.’ – Jonas Salk
Encouraging kids to comply with rules or follow a code of conduct is a bit tricky. Negative motivation only is not the correct approach. It can have adverse psychological effects. A better option may be to reward the doer. With this thought, we have come up with a Rewards Chart in this post. Our charts are not restricted to use for kids only. You can have them for motivating yourself even as an adult too.
According to the theory of Motivation (Maslow, 1943), rewards and recognition are positive drivers. These needs may be at a higher level in the hierarchy of needs but cannot be avoided. Especially when human beings are driven by quality living instead of mere survival, the recognition needs become more pronounced. Rewards charts offer the handiest solution for recognizing achievements. In case of a lag, these may encourage and inspire you to upend your efforts.
How to recognize a good action or deed on a daily basis? An easy solution to this question lies in reward charts. Listed here are free blank and starred rewards charts printables PDFs designed to suit your room decoration needs; you can save them on your devices as continual reminders too:
Types of reward charts
We have designed two types of reward charts for your convenience.
- Blank rewards chart: Our blank reward charts are truly custom performance appraisal supports. You can design rewards of your own. You can write down daily goals, and the achievements against them. It can help you understand how far you have come from the beginning point.
As a grown-up, you can stick these on your room wall and reuse them to set new goals and record corresponding progress levels.
- Starred rewards chart: Rewards charts with stars printable PDFs are ideal curiosity generators for little kids. A star is associated with achievement, and kids love to accumulate lots of them to show to others. Start by writing the name and filling in the corresponding numbers of stars achieved by a student with an attractive color. It is sure to give a heads-up to the kid to maintain a stronghold.
In case you want children to avoid comparing them with one another, you can have these printed in bulk to hand over one to each child and ask them to fill in stars according to their achievements.
How to Use the Star Weekly Rewards Chart
Setting up and using the Star Weekly Rewards Chart is a straightforward process that can be easily followed. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you implement the chart effectively:
A. Step-by-step guide to setting up the chart
- Choose a visible and easily accessible location: Select a prominent area in your home or classroom where the chart can be displayed. It should be easily visible to the child or children using it.
- Print the chart: Download the free printable Star Weekly Rewards Chart in PDF format and print it out. Ensure that you have enough copies for each child using the chart.
- Gather necessary materials: Collect colorful markers, stickers, or stamps that will be used to mark the child’s progress on the chart. Make sure to have a designated place to store these materials near the chart.
B. Determining the target behavior or goal
- Identify the behavior or goal to focus on: Determine the specific behavior or goal you want to encourage or track using the rewards chart. It could be completing chores, doing homework, or practicing a musical instrument.
- Break it down into smaller tasks: If the behavior or goal is complex, break it down into smaller, achievable tasks. This helps the child stay motivated and provides opportunities for frequent rewards.
- Set realistic expectations: Ensure that the behavior or goal is age-appropriate and attainable for the child. Unrealistic expectations may lead to frustration and demotivation.
C. Explaining the star system and rewards
- Introduce the star system: Explain to the child that they will receive stars on the chart for each time they demonstrate the desired behavior or accomplish a specific task. Each star represents progress toward the ultimate goal.
- Determine the criteria for earning stars: Clearly define what actions or milestones warrant earning a star. For example, completing homework without reminders, practicing an instrument for a certain amount of time, or being kind to siblings.
- Establish a reward system: Decide on a reward system that will motivate the child to earn stars consistently. It could be a small treat, extra screen time, a special outing, or a predetermined reward that holds significance for the child.
Remember to regularly review and assess the progress of the child. Celebrate their achievements by acknowledging the accumulation of stars and providing the agreed-upon rewards. The Star Weekly Rewards Chart serves as a visual representation of their accomplishments, reinforcing positive behavior and fostering a sense of achievement.
Tips for Successful Implementation
Implementing the Star Weekly Rewards Chart effectively requires consistency, patience, and a proactive approach. Here are some helpful tips to ensure success:
- Establish a routine: Set specific times for tracking progress, awarding stars, and reviewing the chart. Consistency in following the routine will help children understand expectations and develop a sense of structure.
- Maintain regular updates: Regularly update the chart with earned stars and review progress with the child. This reinforces accountability and keeps them engaged in the process.
- Track progress together: Involve the child in tracking their progress by allowing them to place stars on the chart themselves. This empowers them and helps them take ownership of their achievements.
- Offer immediate feedback: Provide immediate positive feedback when a star is earned, acknowledging the child’s effort and accomplishment. This reinforces the connection between the behavior and the reward.
- Gradually increase the challenge: As the child becomes more proficient in the target behavior, gradually raise the bar by setting new goals or increasing the difficulty level. This encourages continuous growth and improvement.
- Address setbacks positively: If the child faces difficulties or experiences setbacks, offer support and encouragement instead of punishment or criticism. Focus on their progress rather than dwelling on temporary setbacks.
- Adjust goals and rewards if needed: If the established goals or rewards are not motivating the child effectively, be flexible and open to making adjustments. Tailor the chart to their individual needs and interests to maintain their engagement.
- Celebrate milestones: Alongside the daily or weekly rewards, establish milestone rewards for significant achievements. Celebrating milestones provides an extra boost of motivation and a sense of accomplishment.
Remember, the Star Weekly Rewards Chart is a tool to foster positive behavior and habits, not a substitute for ongoing guidance, encouragement, and communication. Communicate openly with the child about their progress, offer support, and engage in discussions about their challenges and successes.
Summing up,
Learning happens more effectively when the objectives are clear. Whether you are a kid or an office-goer, you can always ignite the competitive streak in you by having a rewards chart right in your sight. These not only give direction, but also encourage to strive for higher and better achievements.