This past summer, I decided to start a couple new things in our house: chores, goals and allowances. Thanks to the allowances the boys got on board with the chores and goals, and I found these things to be quite effective. 

For chores, I ordered these made in the USA dry erase chore charts on Amazon:Dry Erase Kids Chore Chart – 14.5″ x 11″ – Classroom Refrigerator Home Teaching Reinforcement – Teach Children Positive Behavior Responsibility – Reusable Child Reward Star Incentive List (Blue). I like that I could write in the chores myself, and I really liked the last few lines at the bottom. It says, “If the total is great than ___ my reward will be _____.”

For our boys – 6 and 4 – we kept the chores to a minimum while they get used to the idea – making beds, putting away laundry, picking up rooms, setting and clearing the dinner table. At the end of the week, they need 18 checks to get their allowance. 

I use a 3 jar system for their allowance. (Ball Mason 4oz Quilted Jelly Jars with Lids and Bands, Set of 12) They get $1 total, so we put $.80 in spending, $.10 in savings, $.10 in tithe (for church). It’s a great way for them to learn about saving, counting money and generosity. 

For the summer, we made 3 goals. I had the boys help me come up with the goals (with a lot of guidance from me) and the rewards. 2 of their 3 goals were about independence, and 1 goal was about learning. We settled on a $2 reward, a new hot wheel car and a trip to the trampoline place as our 3 rewards. I’m pleased with the result, and my oldest asked if we could make fall goals. 

Just sharing what worked for us, in case it works for your family too!

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