Monday, July 30, 2012

DIY Chore Chart

I've been thinking about making a chore chart for the girls for, oh, several months. FINALLY, I got around to doing it. We really need some more structure around here, especially since things are so loosey-goosey in the summer. The way I figure it, a chore chart is a good reminder for them AND me about what they need to be doing everyday.

Basically, I made mini-versions of our Dry-Erase Learning Boards for their chore charts. Here's how I did it:


I picked up these rectangular frames from Wal-mart. They were pretty cheap -- about $3 each, I think.

Then, I cut some scrapbook paper to fit inside each one. E gets green, and L gets pink.


On my computer, I designed the chore charts in Microsoft Publisher. I kept the "chores" pretty simple -- just basic stuff like taking care of their personal needs, keeping things tidy, using good manners, and having a good attitude. Once it was printed, I trimmed the chore chart down and mounted it onto 12 x 12 scrapbook paper.

Then, I just slipped it inside the frame. Voila! A homemade chore chart! I'm not mounting the charts to the wall like we did to the learning boards because I will probably want to make changes to the chore charts as the girls master the things on the list. Instead, I just used a picture hanger to hold it securely.

We'll keep track of their progress using dry-erase markers. At the end of the week, we'll tally up their points and hopefully they'll earn a reward of some kind.


Wondering What's on These Chore Charts?
  • Morning: make bed, put pj's away, brush teeth, brush hair, get dressed, clear table, help mom, good attitude, good manners
  • Afternoon: clear table, tidy room, tidy house, help mom, writing, math, reading, good attitude, good manners
  • Evening: clear table, tidy room, tidy house, bath, brush teeth, brush hair, bedtime, good attitude, good manners

Other DIY Projects You Might Like:
  • DIY Mantel Words - These are super-easy to make AND practically FREE.
  • DIY Rustic Paint Finish - This is a simple painting technique. Best of all, it doesn't have to look perfect. It's perfect in its imperfection.
  • DIY Glass Painted Gifts - I made some of these wineglasses for myself. I just love, love, love them!
 

5 comments:

Erika said...

I love this idea!!! I definitely need to get the boys a little more organized and helpful around here. I think they'd enjoy helping check things off too. I'd be very interested in seeing what you put on each chart. Would you mind possibly sharing via email?

Jamy said...

This is the best chore chart I have seen! Like Erika, I wondered if you would share what else is on the chart. I tried zooming in, but it just gets blurry! I would be so grateful!

Janel said...

Hey Ladies - I updated the post to include what we've got on our chore charts. Obviously, this will vary depend on the age, responsibilities, and capabilities of your child. But, hopefully this helps you get an idea of where to start!

Jamy said...

Oh my gosh, you ROCK! Thank you thank you thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Seriously, I love the morning afternoon and evening idea. I am incorporating this with another idea I saw where each section has to be checked and signed by parents. I am doing this before they are allowed to watch tv, play video games, etc. Thank you again!

Janel said...

You're welcome Jamy! Glad it helps!