A basic checklist chore chart works for about two weeks before the novelty wears off. What keeps kids actually motivated long-term is a system where effort clearly leads to something they want — not just a checkmark that disappears at the end of the week.
This free printable kids chore chart uses a simple points system: chores earn points, and points get spent in a "rewards store" the child helps build themselves. It's more engaging than a plain checklist and easier to manage than a full allowance system.
Quick Start:
Download the chart, list age-appropriate chores with a point value for each, fill in a rewards store with your child, and check off completed chores through the week as points add up.
Worksheet Preview:
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Printable PDF • US Letter format • 2 pages • Suitable for home printing
What's Included
- Weekly Chore Chart: Chores listed with a point value, plus a checkbox for each day of the week.
- Points Earned Tracker: A running log to add up points as the week goes on.
- Rewards Store: A place to list rewards your child can "buy" with points, each with its own point cost.
- Points Balance Log: Tracks points earned, points spent, and the running balance over time.
Why a Points System Works Better Than a Simple Checklist
A plain checklist treats every chore the same and offers no real payoff beyond a checkmark. A points system does two things a checklist can't:
- It teaches value. Harder or less pleasant chores are worth more points, which mirrors how effort and reward work in the real world.
- It builds delayed gratification. Saving points toward a bigger reward instead of cashing in immediately is a small, low-stakes way to practice patience.
How to Set Up Your Chore & Reward System
- Choose age-appropriate chores. A 5-year-old and a 12-year-old need very different lists — keep tasks realistic for the child's age.
- Assign point values based on effort. A quick task like making the bed might be worth 1 point; vacuuming a whole room might be worth 3.
- Build the rewards store together. Let your child suggest rewards — this is what makes the system feel like theirs, not just another rule.
- Set point costs for each reward. Small rewards (extra 10 minutes of screen time) should cost less than big ones (a trip to get ice cream).
- Check off chores daily. A daily check-in keeps the system active instead of becoming an afterthought by Friday.
- Let them redeem points when they're ready. Some kids will cash out weekly; others will save for something bigger. Both are fine.
Sample Point Values by Chore Difficulty
| Chore | Suggested Points |
|---|---|
| Make the bed | 1 |
| Feed the pet | 1 |
| Put away laundry | 2 |
| Set/clear the table | 2 |
| Vacuum a room | 3 |
| Clean the bathroom | 4 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this chore chart really free?
Yes. It's a free printable worksheet you can generate and print for personal use.
What age is this system best for?
It works well for roughly ages 5-14, with the chores and rewards adjusted to fit the specific child.
Should points convert to real money?
That's entirely up to your family. Some parents use points purely for privileges and treats; others convert points to allowance. Either works with this chart.
What if my child loses motivation partway through?
Revisit the rewards store together. Rewards that felt exciting a month ago may need refreshing to stay motivating.
Can I use this for more than one child?
Yes — print a separate copy per child so each has their own chores, points, and rewards store.
Start Building Good Habits
Download the free printable chore chart and set up your family's rewards store today.
Recommended Print Settings
- Paper: US Letter or A4
- Scale: 100% or "Fit to Printable Area"
- Orientation: Portrait
- Color: Black and white or grayscale to save ink