5 Types of Behavior Charts to Use with Your Child or Teen

Behavior charts can be powerful tools for motivating children and teens, teaching responsibility, and helping them stay accountable. The key is to keep the chart simple, consistent, and tailored to your child’s age and needs. Here are five types of charts parents often find helpful:

1. General Behavior Chart

   This is the most versatile type of chart, used to track overall behavior such as listening, following directions, showing respect, or completing homework. Parents can use stickers, checkmarks, or points to record daily progress. For younger children, the chart might include colorful images or emojis to represent behaviors. For teens, a simple grid or app-based system may work best. Rewards should be meaningful but realistic—extra screen time, a later bedtime on weekends, or choosing a family activity.

2. Chore Chart

   Chore charts help children build responsibility and learn the value of contributing to the household. Create a list of age-appropriate chores—like making the bed, feeding pets, taking out the trash, or helping with laundry—and track completion daily or weekly. For younger kids, pictures of the chores can help with understanding, while older kids and teens can use a checklist format. Rewards might include allowance, privileges, or earning points toward a larger goal.

3. Hygiene Chart

   Hygiene is a common area where kids (and especially tweens) need reminders. A hygiene chart can track daily habits such as brushing teeth, showering, washing hands, using deodorant, or even changing clothes regularly. This chart works especially well when tied to a routine, like mornings and evenings. Because hygiene is a personal area, avoid shaming and keep rewards private, such as choosing a special soap, getting a fun toothbrush, or earning time for a favorite hobby.

4. Screen Time Chart

   Many families struggle with managing electronics, so a screen time chart can be especially useful. Children earn time on devices by completing responsibilities first (homework, chores, or reading). You can also set limits by tracking how much screen time is used each day. For example, each checkmark equals 15 minutes of earned time, or points can be exchanged for screen privileges. This approach helps kids learn balance and self-control while giving parents a clear framework for limits.

5. Emotional Regulation Chart

   Teaching kids to manage emotions is just as important as teaching academics or chores. An emotional regulation chart can help children identify and track their feelings (calm, frustrated, angry, sad, excited) and practice healthy coping strategies like deep breathing, journaling, or taking a break. Younger children might use a “feelings face” chart with simple emojis, while older children and teens can track moods in writing. Parents can reward progress in recognizing and managing emotions—for example, staying calm during a conflict—by offering praise, quality time, or privileges.

Tip: No matter which chart you choose, consistency and encouragement are key. Keep the charts visible, celebrate progress (even small steps), and avoid focusing only on mistakes. Over time, these charts can help your child or teen build lasting habits of responsibility, independence, and self-control.