Screen Time Management

In 2010, I created this Point & Reward System, aimed at developing healthy habits.

Points and Reward System

This is the gamification of homework, chores, sports, hobbies, and other activities. Upon completing an activity, the child earns points which accumulate over time. Once they reach a specific score within a day, they are rewarded with a Silver Star, scoring above expected; they get a Gold Star (like at school).

• Reward
  A Star empowers the child to choose rewards, such as screen time (Watching or Playing), parent time, and other incentives. To make it fun, have a day where rewards are random.
  
  
• Weekend
  The number and type of stars awarded during the week again empower the child to choose a reward/s; yet to unlock this reward, special weekend activities must be achieved.
  
  
• Activities & Points
  As children grow, you can adjust the point values, introduce new activities tailored to their age and circumstances, and target what you want your child to focus on and the healthy habits you want them to create.
  
  
• Parents should Participate
  As parents, it is beneficial for you to participate in the process alongside your children. You may consider exploring our Vitality Challenge to enhance your family’s well-being or devise your own activities and rewards.

Scoring:
We are revamping our old app; in the meantime, you can do this yourself.

Consider using a whiteboard & marker or blackboard & chalk to track points.

If possible, keep the board out of children’s reach while allowing them to view their point totals, keeping them engaged and aware of their progress.

Example Points:
Every family is unique, and the assigned activities and points should be tailored according to your child’s age.

The following is a general outline:

For teenagers, allocate 100 Points for a Silver Star and 150 Points for a Gold Star. However, for younger children, consider using a smaller scale, such as 10 Points for a Silver Star and 15 Points for a Gold Star. This adjustment makes the goal more achievable and age-appropriate, as 100 points might seem too daunting for younger children. Essentially, it’s a matter of dividing the points by 10 or simply removing the zero.

Here is an example of a basic point system:

• Make your Bed (10 Points)
• Clean your room (20 Points)
• Eat your Vegetables (20 points)
• Read a Book (30 Points)
• Do your Homework (40 Points)
• 30-Minute Exercise (40 Points)
• Train/Play a Sport (60 Points)
• Do the Dishes (60 Points)

Monkey See, Monkey Do

So much emphasis is placed on limiting children’s screen time and making them healthier individuals. But unfortunately, some adults forget that children will follow what they see. 

Consider creating your own point system, and do our Vitality Challenge.

Make it a family challenge…

Compete with other Families and friends…

Just make sure you have fun with it.