I created this simple behavior chart for my two-year-old and four-year-old to give me a visual aid that stimulates day-to-day communication with them about behavior.
According to some experts, using rewards to influence children’s behavior may diminish their intrinsic motivation, so I’m trying to limit using rewards while still being realistic.
Using this behavior chart allows me to reward good behavior without needing to give them a treat or toy every time they do something correctly. Likewise, it is nice to have a visual warning system when they misbehave instead of going to a punishment right away or falling into never ending verbal threats.
Here is everything you need to know to make your own DIY behavior chart for siblings. If you have a Cricut, I’ve included a link to my label designs!
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DIY Your Own Magnet Behavior Chart
Materials Needed
Magnet Board
Magnet Printable Paper
Printer
Scissors (or Cricut)
Laminate (optional)
Vinyl (optional)
Instructions
1. Choose your magnets.
I used pictures of my kids for this behavior chart, but you could also use shapes or even write their names.
2. Print your magnets on magnet printable paper.
3. Laminate the magnets for extra durability.
This laminating paper is easy to use and has kept our magnets in good condition.
4. Cut out your magnets or use your Cricut to cut.
5. Add labels to the middle of the board.
Download my Cricut label designs for free.
I used my Cricut to cut these out of vinyl but you could just write them in sharpie.
Divide the magnet board into 5 sections to include “START,” “GREEN,” “YELLOW,” “RED,” and “STAR.”
5. Explain the rules of the chart to your child.
For example, if you stay in your bed all night, you will move your magnet from START to GREEN. If you disobey, you will move your magnet from GREEN to YELLOW. If you disobey and your magnet is already on YELLOW, you will move your magnet to RED. When my kids are on RED, they take a time out and they may not use any electronics or other special privileges until they get back to GREEN.
6. Let your child move their own magnet as they make choices throughout the day.
Our behavior chart is hung out of reach because my two-year-old continued to use it as a toy or destroy the magnets in a tantrum, but I still allow them to use a stool to move their magnets, especially when they are moving up for good behavior.
7. Reward your child for making good choices.
If they stay on GREEN all day, move them to STAR and give them a special treat. We have a treat bowl for STAR days and even a special STAR day celebration dance.
This easy DIY behavior chart for two-year-olds and four-year-olds is a great way to teach your children young about consequences, both good and bad. And it’s a visual reminder for you, too!