My Star Chart (Kids)
A child reward chart with up to three positive goals tracked daily, tiered rewards and a parent section for specific praise.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Behavioural parenting
- Approach / concern
- For Kids
- Technique
- Behavioural parenting
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the My Star Chart (Kids)?
Reward charts (token economies) use positive reinforcement to build desired behaviours. They’re a core tool in behavioural parent training, most effective when combined with specific praise and consistent routines.
Why it works
Parent management training using positive reinforcement improves child behaviour (Kazdin, 2005). A meta-analysis found the Triple P positive parenting program improves child behaviour and parenting practices (Sanders et al., 2014).
When to use it
- Children aged about 3-10
- Building routines (bedtime, homework)
- Reducing challenging behaviour
- Parent training programs
How to use it in session
- Choose 1-3 positive goals.
- Agree on rewards together.
- Give stars immediately with praise.
- Review weekly.
- Fade gradually.
Clinician tips
- Never remove earned stars.
- Keep rewards small and frequent.
- Focus on effort and progress.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Do reward charts spoil children?
Used well, they help build habits; praise and fading prevent dependence on rewards.
How long should we use a chart?
Usually a few weeks, then fade as the behaviour becomes routine.
References
Kazdin, A. E. (2005). Parent management training: Treatment for oppositional, aggressive, and antisocial behavior in children and adolescents. Oxford University Press.
Sanders, M. R., Kirby, J. N., Tellegen, C. L., & Day, J. J. (2014). The Triple P-Positive Parenting Program: A systematic review and meta-analysis of a multi-level system of parenting support. Clinical Psychology Review, 34(4), 337-357.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
