Last summer I quickly threw together a chore chart system using some popsicle sticks and cups, and it’s been my girls’ favorite chore system ever. For them, being able to grab a stick and do that chore then move it to completed works with their reward method. I decided that since it’s been their favorite, I’d create a more permanent and nicer looking chore chart system for them this year.
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First off I purchased some jumbo craft (popsicle) sticks and some of this Rust Oleum American Accents Aluminum spray paint, and gave both sides of the sticks two coats of spray paint.
While waiting for those to dry I used these Kerr Quilted Crystal Jelly Jars and hot glued some strong magnets to the back side of the jar. I knew I wanted the ‘To Do’ and ‘Done’ vinyl lettering to be on the oval label section, so added the magnets to the opposite side of that. I first tried some small magnets, but they wouldn’t hold the jar weight on the metal sheet, so I picked up some heavy duty magnets at Home Depot and they worked.
Next, I used some metal sheeting from Home Depot (snipped down to size) and placed it in a basic black picture frame. I used my Cricut Explore machine to cut the vinyl lettering for the chore chart name and chores.
I used the Cricut transfer tape to remove the vinyl from the vinyl backing and be able to transfer it over to the project.
It was delicate and I had to take my time to make sure each letter “stuck”.
The chore chart sticks were a bit harder since the lettering was so small. The transfer tape really helped though and I had tweezers ready to help with pieces that didn’t want to fall into line.
And here’s the finished product! I also applied vinyl lettering to the jars for a To Do and Done jar.
One idea I had was to place my girls’ allowance money into the jar so they could see what they’re working for. I’ve tried different money systems, and I think this is the most helpful for them to see their “job” and their “salary” in the house. We don’t buy a lot for our girls, they have to earn money and use birthday money for things they want. However, we also want them to start having the ability to earn more money regularly and start learning about budgeting and saving. This is just an idea, you don’t have to place money or rewards in the jars.
I love how this chore chart system allows me to add in chores easily and change out chores depending on what our family schedule is like.
Have any questions? If you like this chore chart system, I’d love for you to share this on Facebook or Pin it. Thanks!
Super cute idea!
would you be willing to send me the list of chores you chose? I’m having a difficult time trying to decide what i should put down as daily chores, extra chores for extra cash and behavioral attitudes. And how i should put them all down on my sticks with the prices and the payments they would owe if bad behavior!!
thank you so much
Hi JenniferMarie! We still struggle with finding the correct chores for each kid! Our list typically has:
– Put away backpack, coat, shoes
– Homework
– Daily Reading
– Pick up Downstairs (all their toys, shoes, clothes, etc)
– Make Bed
– Bedroom Floor
– Bedroom Surfaces (we find separating them makes it more manageable)
– Set Table
– Unload Dishwasher
– Pet Care (one has feed/water, other has scoop litterbox)
These are daily chores, if they get them done they can earn the dollar in the cup.
Extra chores are normally things like -empty & clean out cabinet/fridge, -clean toilets/bathrooms, -sweep/vacuum, -dust, -yard cleanup.
I’m not sure how to handle the bad behavior with that system, sorry! :)
What font is that you used on the labels? Very cute.
Hi Shari, just looked on my Cricut Design Space project and looks like it’s called ‘Birthday Cakes’.