The Ultimate List of Class Reward Ideas for Teachers

Rewards are an integral part of any classroom management system. Children are, by nature, extrinsically motivated.
By 
Katie Neumeier
 | 
July 14, 2022

The list goes on and on. A key piece to getting all of these things accomplished is having a strong classroom management system in place that includes positive reinforcement and of course, rewards. So why should you use rewards in your classroom?

Why Classroom Rewards Matter

Rewards are an integral part of any classroom management system. Children are, by nature, extrinsically motivated. This means they need something tangible in return to feel accomplished in what they are doing or how they are behaving. 

As children grow up, there should be a shift in how often extrinsic motivational tools, like rewards, are used as we simultaneously build up their intrinsic motivation. 

Eventually, the goal is to make the complete transition and have students who function intrinsically, at least as far as disruptive behavior goes. Rewarding students for positive behaviors we observe and want to see is where we should be starting in classrooms. Rewards also promote self-regulation and encourage teamwork which are powerful skills that can follow PBIS best practices in the classroom setting as well.

15 Classroom Reward Ideas

Rewards do not need to be complicated! There are many fun, creative ideas out there that are easy to implement and most importantly, inexpensive. Using some of the ideas listed for you here will be a perfect starting place. If not, maybe they can serve as a jumping-off spot for your very own reward creations. 

100% Free & Effective 

1. Extra Recess 

Students love time with their friends during the school day to relax, socialize, and burn off excess energy. Taking them outside gives them more time to practice positive social behaviors and build friendships, which are both helpful to the students and you! 

Student Choice

2. Partner Work

This reward is easy to implement in any classroom, regardless of age. Many times, classroom seating arrangements ensure students who are overly friendly sit farthest apart and academic partnerships are data-driven. 

This means giving the students a chance to choose their partner is high leverage. 

3. Special Seating

Perfect for a Friday, this whole class reward allows students to not only complete work with a partner of choice, but choose their seat! 

This comes with, of course, some boundary setting and enforcement, but definitely a fun option that many students would be interested in. 

4. No Homework

Many schools and teachers still require at-home practice to reinforce the skills and strategies learned at school. If you are giving homework, maybe offering a chance for students to not complete an assignment would be exciting to them. 

Adventure is Out There

5. Tech Time

This reward could be carried out in various ways. One option is allowing students to enjoy time on school technology where they can play on any academic site like Epic, Prodigy, or Kodable.

Another option is creating a time in the week for students to bring in their own technology; Nintendo Switch, laptops, etc. If choosing the latter, be ready to set more strict rules and boundaries to ensure students are being safe and making positive choices. 

6. Dress Up or Down Day

If students are not used to getting a choice in what they wear day to day, this idea may shake things up! Add extra flair by creating a themed dress-up day like “cowboy day” or a dress-down day in their favorite pajamas. 

7. Virtual Field Trip

Over the past couple of years, there has been a huge increase in educational companies creating and offering engaging virtual field trip content. Lucky us! 

Check out any of your favorite national or local field trip destinations to see if there are any free virtual field trip options to choose from. 

Platforms such as Nearpod also offer short experiences that you can upload straight into lessons to supplement and expand your student’s knowledge. 

8. Picnic Lunch

Eating in the cafeteria every day can be boring and there is no way we can accommodate every student in the classroom for lunch. Also, the thought of crumbs and milk everywhere is horrifying. 

A great alternative would be to have a picnic outside. Students can also bring their blankets or quilts from home for extra comfort. 

Time to Party

9. Snack Party

Let’s face it, kids will do almost anything for a bag of Hot Cheetos or a couple of M&M’s. If your class is filled with the snackers, this reward idea will do perfectly. 

The best part about this is it does not have to all be provided by you. Ask for a couple of volunteers and I am sure you will have tons of hands raised. 

10. Ice Cream Sundae Party

Similar to the snack party idea, students will go crazy when they earn an Ice Cream Party. Grab a couple of gallons of ice cream, some whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and you’re good to go. Don’t forget the sprinkles!

11. Glow Party

This reward may take a bit more planning and money, but it is well worth it. Buying glow sticks and glow balloons in bulk from Amazon is your best option. For added fun, cover the windows with black butcher paper and create a dance playlist in advance. 

Class Reward Example

Check out this example from weareteachers.com.

12. Board Game Party

A common misconception is that students think board games are boring. Most of your students, perhaps, have never gotten a chance to play Sorry!, Clue, or Battleship. Gather some of your favorite board games and teach your students how to follow rules the good old-fashioned way. 

Sharing is Caring

13. Positive Parent Note or Call Home

An oldie but a goodie. Students absolutely love when you share with their families how they are doing in school. Calling is easier, but you can give it a more personalized touch by sending a handwritten note home. 

14. Social Media Shout-Out

If your students are active on social media and you have a teacher Twitter or Instagram account, this idea would be innovative. Creating a post or story about your class and all the wonderful things they are doing would do wonders. 

15. Q&A

Have tons of curious students who always ask a million questions? Create a jar for students to submit questions about YOU. As a reward, you could dedicate some time to answering questions from the jar or take a few at random. You never know what students will ask!

Your Class Rewards

When implemented within a strong PBIS system, rewards can be a very powerful tool to help support both you and students in the classroom. 

Positive behavior and intrinsic motivation are not just built overnight. Both are systematic and take time, patience, and consistency. 

Using a reward system in your classroom will make a difference and can lead to endless possibilities for you and your students! Still looking for the perfect incentive? You could develop your own PBIS Store or take a look at our list of free rewards for students.

In today’s society, a teacher’s job reaches far beyond the academic realm. While ensuring our students meet state and school mandated standards we must also keep classroom behavior in check, support our student’s social and emotional needs, build character, and maintain strong relationships with families and other stakeholders.

The list goes on and on. A key piece to getting all of these things accomplished is having a strong classroom management system in place that includes positive reinforcement and of course, rewards. So why should you use rewards in your classroom?

Why Classroom Rewards Matter

Rewards are an integral part of any classroom management system. Children are, by nature, extrinsically motivated. This means they need something tangible in return to feel accomplished in what they are doing or how they are behaving. 

As children grow up, there should be a shift in how often extrinsic motivational tools, like rewards, are used as we simultaneously build up their intrinsic motivation. 

Eventually, the goal is to make the complete transition and have students who function intrinsically, at least as far as disruptive behavior goes. Rewarding students for positive behaviors we observe and want to see is where we should be starting in classrooms. Rewards also promote self-regulation and encourage teamwork which are powerful skills that can follow PBIS best practices in the classroom setting as well.

15 Classroom Reward Ideas

Rewards do not need to be complicated! There are many fun, creative ideas out there that are easy to implement and most importantly, inexpensive. Using some of the ideas listed for you here will be a perfect starting place. If not, maybe they can serve as a jumping-off spot for your very own reward creations. 

100% Free & Effective 

1. Extra Recess 

Students love time with their friends during the school day to relax, socialize, and burn off excess energy. Taking them outside gives them more time to practice positive social behaviors and build friendships, which are both helpful to the students and you! 

Student Choice

2. Partner Work

This reward is easy to implement in any classroom, regardless of age. Many times, classroom seating arrangements ensure students who are overly friendly sit farthest apart and academic partnerships are data-driven. 

This means giving the students a chance to choose their partner is high leverage. 

3. Special Seating

Perfect for a Friday, this whole class reward allows students to not only complete work with a partner of choice, but choose their seat! 

This comes with, of course, some boundary setting and enforcement, but definitely a fun option that many students would be interested in. 

4. No Homework

Many schools and teachers still require at-home practice to reinforce the skills and strategies learned at school. If you are giving homework, maybe offering a chance for students to not complete an assignment would be exciting to them. 

Adventure is Out There

5. Tech Time

This reward could be carried out in various ways. One option is allowing students to enjoy time on school technology where they can play on any academic site like Epic, Prodigy, or Kodable.

Another option is creating a time in the week for students to bring in their own technology; Nintendo Switch, laptops, etc. If choosing the latter, be ready to set more strict rules and boundaries to ensure students are being safe and making positive choices. 

6. Dress Up or Down Day

If students are not used to getting a choice in what they wear day to day, this idea may shake things up! Add extra flair by creating a themed dress-up day like “cowboy day” or a dress-down day in their favorite pajamas. 

7. Virtual Field Trip

Over the past couple of years, there has been a huge increase in educational companies creating and offering engaging virtual field trip content. Lucky us! 

Check out any of your favorite national or local field trip destinations to see if there are any free virtual field trip options to choose from. 

Platforms such as Nearpod also offer short experiences that you can upload straight into lessons to supplement and expand your student’s knowledge. 

8. Picnic Lunch

Eating in the cafeteria every day can be boring and there is no way we can accommodate every student in the classroom for lunch. Also, the thought of crumbs and milk everywhere is horrifying. 

A great alternative would be to have a picnic outside. Students can also bring their blankets or quilts from home for extra comfort. 

Time to Party

9. Snack Party

Let’s face it, kids will do almost anything for a bag of Hot Cheetos or a couple of M&M’s. If your class is filled with the snackers, this reward idea will do perfectly. 

The best part about this is it does not have to all be provided by you. Ask for a couple of volunteers and I am sure you will have tons of hands raised. 

10. Ice Cream Sundae Party

Similar to the snack party idea, students will go crazy when they earn an Ice Cream Party. Grab a couple of gallons of ice cream, some whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and you’re good to go. Don’t forget the sprinkles!

11. Glow Party

This reward may take a bit more planning and money, but it is well worth it. Buying glow sticks and glow balloons in bulk from Amazon is your best option. For added fun, cover the windows with black butcher paper and create a dance playlist in advance. 

Class Reward Example

Check out this example from weareteachers.com.

12. Board Game Party

A common misconception is that students think board games are boring. Most of your students, perhaps, have never gotten a chance to play Sorry!, Clue, or Battleship. Gather some of your favorite board games and teach your students how to follow rules the good old-fashioned way. 

Sharing is Caring

13. Positive Parent Note or Call Home

An oldie but a goodie. Students absolutely love when you share with their families how they are doing in school. Calling is easier, but you can give it a more personalized touch by sending a handwritten note home. 

14. Social Media Shout-Out

If your students are active on social media and you have a teacher Twitter or Instagram account, this idea would be innovative. Creating a post or story about your class and all the wonderful things they are doing would do wonders. 

15. Q&A

Have tons of curious students who always ask a million questions? Create a jar for students to submit questions about YOU. As a reward, you could dedicate some time to answering questions from the jar or take a few at random. You never know what students will ask!

Your Class Rewards

When implemented within a strong PBIS system, rewards can be a very powerful tool to help support both you and students in the classroom. 

Positive behavior and intrinsic motivation are not just built overnight. Both are systematic and take time, patience, and consistency. 

Using a reward system in your classroom will make a difference and can lead to endless possibilities for you and your students! Still looking for the perfect incentive? You could develop your own PBIS Store or take a look at our list of free rewards for students.

The list goes on and on. A key piece to getting all of these things accomplished is having a strong classroom management system in place that includes positive reinforcement and of course, rewards. So why should you use rewards in your classroom?

Why Classroom Rewards Matter

Rewards are an integral part of any classroom management system. Children are, by nature, extrinsically motivated. This means they need something tangible in return to feel accomplished in what they are doing or how they are behaving. 

As children grow up, there should be a shift in how often extrinsic motivational tools, like rewards, are used as we simultaneously build up their intrinsic motivation. 

Eventually, the goal is to make the complete transition and have students who function intrinsically, at least as far as disruptive behavior goes. Rewarding students for positive behaviors we observe and want to see is where we should be starting in classrooms. Rewards also promote self-regulation and encourage teamwork which are powerful skills that can follow PBIS best practices in the classroom setting as well.

15 Classroom Reward Ideas

Rewards do not need to be complicated! There are many fun, creative ideas out there that are easy to implement and most importantly, inexpensive. Using some of the ideas listed for you here will be a perfect starting place. If not, maybe they can serve as a jumping-off spot for your very own reward creations. 

100% Free & Effective 

1. Extra Recess 

Students love time with their friends during the school day to relax, socialize, and burn off excess energy. Taking them outside gives them more time to practice positive social behaviors and build friendships, which are both helpful to the students and you! 

Student Choice

2. Partner Work

This reward is easy to implement in any classroom, regardless of age. Many times, classroom seating arrangements ensure students who are overly friendly sit farthest apart and academic partnerships are data-driven. 

This means giving the students a chance to choose their partner is high leverage. 

3. Special Seating

Perfect for a Friday, this whole class reward allows students to not only complete work with a partner of choice, but choose their seat! 

This comes with, of course, some boundary setting and enforcement, but definitely a fun option that many students would be interested in. 

4. No Homework

Many schools and teachers still require at-home practice to reinforce the skills and strategies learned at school. If you are giving homework, maybe offering a chance for students to not complete an assignment would be exciting to them. 

Adventure is Out There

5. Tech Time

This reward could be carried out in various ways. One option is allowing students to enjoy time on school technology where they can play on any academic site like Epic, Prodigy, or Kodable.

Another option is creating a time in the week for students to bring in their own technology; Nintendo Switch, laptops, etc. If choosing the latter, be ready to set more strict rules and boundaries to ensure students are being safe and making positive choices. 

6. Dress Up or Down Day

If students are not used to getting a choice in what they wear day to day, this idea may shake things up! Add extra flair by creating a themed dress-up day like “cowboy day” or a dress-down day in their favorite pajamas. 

7. Virtual Field Trip

Over the past couple of years, there has been a huge increase in educational companies creating and offering engaging virtual field trip content. Lucky us! 

Check out any of your favorite national or local field trip destinations to see if there are any free virtual field trip options to choose from. 

Platforms such as Nearpod also offer short experiences that you can upload straight into lessons to supplement and expand your student’s knowledge. 

8. Picnic Lunch

Eating in the cafeteria every day can be boring and there is no way we can accommodate every student in the classroom for lunch. Also, the thought of crumbs and milk everywhere is horrifying. 

A great alternative would be to have a picnic outside. Students can also bring their blankets or quilts from home for extra comfort. 

Time to Party

9. Snack Party

Let’s face it, kids will do almost anything for a bag of Hot Cheetos or a couple of M&M’s. If your class is filled with the snackers, this reward idea will do perfectly. 

The best part about this is it does not have to all be provided by you. Ask for a couple of volunteers and I am sure you will have tons of hands raised. 

10. Ice Cream Sundae Party

Similar to the snack party idea, students will go crazy when they earn an Ice Cream Party. Grab a couple of gallons of ice cream, some whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and you’re good to go. Don’t forget the sprinkles!

11. Glow Party

This reward may take a bit more planning and money, but it is well worth it. Buying glow sticks and glow balloons in bulk from Amazon is your best option. For added fun, cover the windows with black butcher paper and create a dance playlist in advance. 

Class Reward Example

Check out this example from weareteachers.com.

12. Board Game Party

A common misconception is that students think board games are boring. Most of your students, perhaps, have never gotten a chance to play Sorry!, Clue, or Battleship. Gather some of your favorite board games and teach your students how to follow rules the good old-fashioned way. 

Sharing is Caring

13. Positive Parent Note or Call Home

An oldie but a goodie. Students absolutely love when you share with their families how they are doing in school. Calling is easier, but you can give it a more personalized touch by sending a handwritten note home. 

14. Social Media Shout-Out

If your students are active on social media and you have a teacher Twitter or Instagram account, this idea would be innovative. Creating a post or story about your class and all the wonderful things they are doing would do wonders. 

15. Q&A

Have tons of curious students who always ask a million questions? Create a jar for students to submit questions about YOU. As a reward, you could dedicate some time to answering questions from the jar or take a few at random. You never know what students will ask!

Your Class Rewards

When implemented within a strong PBIS system, rewards can be a very powerful tool to help support both you and students in the classroom. 

Positive behavior and intrinsic motivation are not just built overnight. Both are systematic and take time, patience, and consistency. 

Using a reward system in your classroom will make a difference and can lead to endless possibilities for you and your students! Still looking for the perfect incentive? You could develop your own PBIS Store or take a look at our list of free rewards for students.

quote icon

The list goes on and on. A key piece to getting all of these things accomplished is having a strong classroom management system in place that includes positive reinforcement and of course, rewards. So why should you use rewards in your classroom?

Why Classroom Rewards Matter

Rewards are an integral part of any classroom management system. Children are, by nature, extrinsically motivated. This means they need something tangible in return to feel accomplished in what they are doing or how they are behaving. 

As children grow up, there should be a shift in how often extrinsic motivational tools, like rewards, are used as we simultaneously build up their intrinsic motivation. 

Eventually, the goal is to make the complete transition and have students who function intrinsically, at least as far as disruptive behavior goes. Rewarding students for positive behaviors we observe and want to see is where we should be starting in classrooms. Rewards also promote self-regulation and encourage teamwork which are powerful skills that can follow PBIS best practices in the classroom setting as well.

15 Classroom Reward Ideas

Rewards do not need to be complicated! There are many fun, creative ideas out there that are easy to implement and most importantly, inexpensive. Using some of the ideas listed for you here will be a perfect starting place. If not, maybe they can serve as a jumping-off spot for your very own reward creations. 

100% Free & Effective 

1. Extra Recess 

Students love time with their friends during the school day to relax, socialize, and burn off excess energy. Taking them outside gives them more time to practice positive social behaviors and build friendships, which are both helpful to the students and you! 

Student Choice

2. Partner Work

This reward is easy to implement in any classroom, regardless of age. Many times, classroom seating arrangements ensure students who are overly friendly sit farthest apart and academic partnerships are data-driven. 

This means giving the students a chance to choose their partner is high leverage. 

3. Special Seating

Perfect for a Friday, this whole class reward allows students to not only complete work with a partner of choice, but choose their seat! 

This comes with, of course, some boundary setting and enforcement, but definitely a fun option that many students would be interested in. 

4. No Homework

Many schools and teachers still require at-home practice to reinforce the skills and strategies learned at school. If you are giving homework, maybe offering a chance for students to not complete an assignment would be exciting to them. 

Adventure is Out There

5. Tech Time

This reward could be carried out in various ways. One option is allowing students to enjoy time on school technology where they can play on any academic site like Epic, Prodigy, or Kodable.

Another option is creating a time in the week for students to bring in their own technology; Nintendo Switch, laptops, etc. If choosing the latter, be ready to set more strict rules and boundaries to ensure students are being safe and making positive choices. 

6. Dress Up or Down Day

If students are not used to getting a choice in what they wear day to day, this idea may shake things up! Add extra flair by creating a themed dress-up day like “cowboy day” or a dress-down day in their favorite pajamas. 

7. Virtual Field Trip

Over the past couple of years, there has been a huge increase in educational companies creating and offering engaging virtual field trip content. Lucky us! 

Check out any of your favorite national or local field trip destinations to see if there are any free virtual field trip options to choose from. 

Platforms such as Nearpod also offer short experiences that you can upload straight into lessons to supplement and expand your student’s knowledge. 

8. Picnic Lunch

Eating in the cafeteria every day can be boring and there is no way we can accommodate every student in the classroom for lunch. Also, the thought of crumbs and milk everywhere is horrifying. 

A great alternative would be to have a picnic outside. Students can also bring their blankets or quilts from home for extra comfort. 

Time to Party

9. Snack Party

Let’s face it, kids will do almost anything for a bag of Hot Cheetos or a couple of M&M’s. If your class is filled with the snackers, this reward idea will do perfectly. 

The best part about this is it does not have to all be provided by you. Ask for a couple of volunteers and I am sure you will have tons of hands raised. 

10. Ice Cream Sundae Party

Similar to the snack party idea, students will go crazy when they earn an Ice Cream Party. Grab a couple of gallons of ice cream, some whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and you’re good to go. Don’t forget the sprinkles!

11. Glow Party

This reward may take a bit more planning and money, but it is well worth it. Buying glow sticks and glow balloons in bulk from Amazon is your best option. For added fun, cover the windows with black butcher paper and create a dance playlist in advance. 

Class Reward Example

Check out this example from weareteachers.com.

12. Board Game Party

A common misconception is that students think board games are boring. Most of your students, perhaps, have never gotten a chance to play Sorry!, Clue, or Battleship. Gather some of your favorite board games and teach your students how to follow rules the good old-fashioned way. 

Sharing is Caring

13. Positive Parent Note or Call Home

An oldie but a goodie. Students absolutely love when you share with their families how they are doing in school. Calling is easier, but you can give it a more personalized touch by sending a handwritten note home. 

14. Social Media Shout-Out

If your students are active on social media and you have a teacher Twitter or Instagram account, this idea would be innovative. Creating a post or story about your class and all the wonderful things they are doing would do wonders. 

15. Q&A

Have tons of curious students who always ask a million questions? Create a jar for students to submit questions about YOU. As a reward, you could dedicate some time to answering questions from the jar or take a few at random. You never know what students will ask!

Your Class Rewards

When implemented within a strong PBIS system, rewards can be a very powerful tool to help support both you and students in the classroom. 

Positive behavior and intrinsic motivation are not just built overnight. Both are systematic and take time, patience, and consistency. 

Using a reward system in your classroom will make a difference and can lead to endless possibilities for you and your students! Still looking for the perfect incentive? You could develop your own PBIS Store or take a look at our list of free rewards for students.

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About the Event

The list goes on and on. A key piece to getting all of these things accomplished is having a strong classroom management system in place that includes positive reinforcement and of course, rewards. So why should you use rewards in your classroom?

Why Classroom Rewards Matter

Rewards are an integral part of any classroom management system. Children are, by nature, extrinsically motivated. This means they need something tangible in return to feel accomplished in what they are doing or how they are behaving. 

As children grow up, there should be a shift in how often extrinsic motivational tools, like rewards, are used as we simultaneously build up their intrinsic motivation. 

Eventually, the goal is to make the complete transition and have students who function intrinsically, at least as far as disruptive behavior goes. Rewarding students for positive behaviors we observe and want to see is where we should be starting in classrooms. Rewards also promote self-regulation and encourage teamwork which are powerful skills that can follow PBIS best practices in the classroom setting as well.

15 Classroom Reward Ideas

Rewards do not need to be complicated! There are many fun, creative ideas out there that are easy to implement and most importantly, inexpensive. Using some of the ideas listed for you here will be a perfect starting place. If not, maybe they can serve as a jumping-off spot for your very own reward creations. 

100% Free & Effective 

1. Extra Recess 

Students love time with their friends during the school day to relax, socialize, and burn off excess energy. Taking them outside gives them more time to practice positive social behaviors and build friendships, which are both helpful to the students and you! 

Student Choice

2. Partner Work

This reward is easy to implement in any classroom, regardless of age. Many times, classroom seating arrangements ensure students who are overly friendly sit farthest apart and academic partnerships are data-driven. 

This means giving the students a chance to choose their partner is high leverage. 

3. Special Seating

Perfect for a Friday, this whole class reward allows students to not only complete work with a partner of choice, but choose their seat! 

This comes with, of course, some boundary setting and enforcement, but definitely a fun option that many students would be interested in. 

4. No Homework

Many schools and teachers still require at-home practice to reinforce the skills and strategies learned at school. If you are giving homework, maybe offering a chance for students to not complete an assignment would be exciting to them. 

Adventure is Out There

5. Tech Time

This reward could be carried out in various ways. One option is allowing students to enjoy time on school technology where they can play on any academic site like Epic, Prodigy, or Kodable.

Another option is creating a time in the week for students to bring in their own technology; Nintendo Switch, laptops, etc. If choosing the latter, be ready to set more strict rules and boundaries to ensure students are being safe and making positive choices. 

6. Dress Up or Down Day

If students are not used to getting a choice in what they wear day to day, this idea may shake things up! Add extra flair by creating a themed dress-up day like “cowboy day” or a dress-down day in their favorite pajamas. 

7. Virtual Field Trip

Over the past couple of years, there has been a huge increase in educational companies creating and offering engaging virtual field trip content. Lucky us! 

Check out any of your favorite national or local field trip destinations to see if there are any free virtual field trip options to choose from. 

Platforms such as Nearpod also offer short experiences that you can upload straight into lessons to supplement and expand your student’s knowledge. 

8. Picnic Lunch

Eating in the cafeteria every day can be boring and there is no way we can accommodate every student in the classroom for lunch. Also, the thought of crumbs and milk everywhere is horrifying. 

A great alternative would be to have a picnic outside. Students can also bring their blankets or quilts from home for extra comfort. 

Time to Party

9. Snack Party

Let’s face it, kids will do almost anything for a bag of Hot Cheetos or a couple of M&M’s. If your class is filled with the snackers, this reward idea will do perfectly. 

The best part about this is it does not have to all be provided by you. Ask for a couple of volunteers and I am sure you will have tons of hands raised. 

10. Ice Cream Sundae Party

Similar to the snack party idea, students will go crazy when they earn an Ice Cream Party. Grab a couple of gallons of ice cream, some whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and you’re good to go. Don’t forget the sprinkles!

11. Glow Party

This reward may take a bit more planning and money, but it is well worth it. Buying glow sticks and glow balloons in bulk from Amazon is your best option. For added fun, cover the windows with black butcher paper and create a dance playlist in advance. 

Class Reward Example

Check out this example from weareteachers.com.

12. Board Game Party

A common misconception is that students think board games are boring. Most of your students, perhaps, have never gotten a chance to play Sorry!, Clue, or Battleship. Gather some of your favorite board games and teach your students how to follow rules the good old-fashioned way. 

Sharing is Caring

13. Positive Parent Note or Call Home

An oldie but a goodie. Students absolutely love when you share with their families how they are doing in school. Calling is easier, but you can give it a more personalized touch by sending a handwritten note home. 

14. Social Media Shout-Out

If your students are active on social media and you have a teacher Twitter or Instagram account, this idea would be innovative. Creating a post or story about your class and all the wonderful things they are doing would do wonders. 

15. Q&A

Have tons of curious students who always ask a million questions? Create a jar for students to submit questions about YOU. As a reward, you could dedicate some time to answering questions from the jar or take a few at random. You never know what students will ask!

Your Class Rewards

When implemented within a strong PBIS system, rewards can be a very powerful tool to help support both you and students in the classroom. 

Positive behavior and intrinsic motivation are not just built overnight. Both are systematic and take time, patience, and consistency. 

Using a reward system in your classroom will make a difference and can lead to endless possibilities for you and your students! Still looking for the perfect incentive? You could develop your own PBIS Store or take a look at our list of free rewards for students.

Register Now

About the Event

The list goes on and on. A key piece to getting all of these things accomplished is having a strong classroom management system in place that includes positive reinforcement and of course, rewards. So why should you use rewards in your classroom?

Why Classroom Rewards Matter

Rewards are an integral part of any classroom management system. Children are, by nature, extrinsically motivated. This means they need something tangible in return to feel accomplished in what they are doing or how they are behaving. 

As children grow up, there should be a shift in how often extrinsic motivational tools, like rewards, are used as we simultaneously build up their intrinsic motivation. 

Eventually, the goal is to make the complete transition and have students who function intrinsically, at least as far as disruptive behavior goes. Rewarding students for positive behaviors we observe and want to see is where we should be starting in classrooms. Rewards also promote self-regulation and encourage teamwork which are powerful skills that can follow PBIS best practices in the classroom setting as well.

15 Classroom Reward Ideas

Rewards do not need to be complicated! There are many fun, creative ideas out there that are easy to implement and most importantly, inexpensive. Using some of the ideas listed for you here will be a perfect starting place. If not, maybe they can serve as a jumping-off spot for your very own reward creations. 

100% Free & Effective 

1. Extra Recess 

Students love time with their friends during the school day to relax, socialize, and burn off excess energy. Taking them outside gives them more time to practice positive social behaviors and build friendships, which are both helpful to the students and you! 

Student Choice

2. Partner Work

This reward is easy to implement in any classroom, regardless of age. Many times, classroom seating arrangements ensure students who are overly friendly sit farthest apart and academic partnerships are data-driven. 

This means giving the students a chance to choose their partner is high leverage. 

3. Special Seating

Perfect for a Friday, this whole class reward allows students to not only complete work with a partner of choice, but choose their seat! 

This comes with, of course, some boundary setting and enforcement, but definitely a fun option that many students would be interested in. 

4. No Homework

Many schools and teachers still require at-home practice to reinforce the skills and strategies learned at school. If you are giving homework, maybe offering a chance for students to not complete an assignment would be exciting to them. 

Adventure is Out There

5. Tech Time

This reward could be carried out in various ways. One option is allowing students to enjoy time on school technology where they can play on any academic site like Epic, Prodigy, or Kodable.

Another option is creating a time in the week for students to bring in their own technology; Nintendo Switch, laptops, etc. If choosing the latter, be ready to set more strict rules and boundaries to ensure students are being safe and making positive choices. 

6. Dress Up or Down Day

If students are not used to getting a choice in what they wear day to day, this idea may shake things up! Add extra flair by creating a themed dress-up day like “cowboy day” or a dress-down day in their favorite pajamas. 

7. Virtual Field Trip

Over the past couple of years, there has been a huge increase in educational companies creating and offering engaging virtual field trip content. Lucky us! 

Check out any of your favorite national or local field trip destinations to see if there are any free virtual field trip options to choose from. 

Platforms such as Nearpod also offer short experiences that you can upload straight into lessons to supplement and expand your student’s knowledge. 

8. Picnic Lunch

Eating in the cafeteria every day can be boring and there is no way we can accommodate every student in the classroom for lunch. Also, the thought of crumbs and milk everywhere is horrifying. 

A great alternative would be to have a picnic outside. Students can also bring their blankets or quilts from home for extra comfort. 

Time to Party

9. Snack Party

Let’s face it, kids will do almost anything for a bag of Hot Cheetos or a couple of M&M’s. If your class is filled with the snackers, this reward idea will do perfectly. 

The best part about this is it does not have to all be provided by you. Ask for a couple of volunteers and I am sure you will have tons of hands raised. 

10. Ice Cream Sundae Party

Similar to the snack party idea, students will go crazy when they earn an Ice Cream Party. Grab a couple of gallons of ice cream, some whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and you’re good to go. Don’t forget the sprinkles!

11. Glow Party

This reward may take a bit more planning and money, but it is well worth it. Buying glow sticks and glow balloons in bulk from Amazon is your best option. For added fun, cover the windows with black butcher paper and create a dance playlist in advance. 

Class Reward Example

Check out this example from weareteachers.com.

12. Board Game Party

A common misconception is that students think board games are boring. Most of your students, perhaps, have never gotten a chance to play Sorry!, Clue, or Battleship. Gather some of your favorite board games and teach your students how to follow rules the good old-fashioned way. 

Sharing is Caring

13. Positive Parent Note or Call Home

An oldie but a goodie. Students absolutely love when you share with their families how they are doing in school. Calling is easier, but you can give it a more personalized touch by sending a handwritten note home. 

14. Social Media Shout-Out

If your students are active on social media and you have a teacher Twitter or Instagram account, this idea would be innovative. Creating a post or story about your class and all the wonderful things they are doing would do wonders. 

15. Q&A

Have tons of curious students who always ask a million questions? Create a jar for students to submit questions about YOU. As a reward, you could dedicate some time to answering questions from the jar or take a few at random. You never know what students will ask!

Your Class Rewards

When implemented within a strong PBIS system, rewards can be a very powerful tool to help support both you and students in the classroom. 

Positive behavior and intrinsic motivation are not just built overnight. Both are systematic and take time, patience, and consistency. 

Using a reward system in your classroom will make a difference and can lead to endless possibilities for you and your students! Still looking for the perfect incentive? You could develop your own PBIS Store or take a look at our list of free rewards for students.

About the Presenter

Katherine Neumeier has spent the last 8 years in education working with Title I schools to build strong classroom practices and close academic gaps with English Language Learners and Special Populations. She has taught across multiple grade levels as well as coached educators, served as a reading specialist, and built an intervention program from the ground up. Integrating EdTech platforms as well as utilizing behavior management tools such as Liveschool have transformed and supported her role as an educator. She earned a bachelor's degree from St. Mary's University and a M.Ed from The University of St. Thomas.

In today’s society, a teacher’s job reaches far beyond the academic realm. While ensuring our students meet state and school mandated standards we must also keep classroom behavior in check, support our student’s social and emotional needs, build character, and maintain strong relationships with families and other stakeholders.

The list goes on and on. A key piece to getting all of these things accomplished is having a strong classroom management system in place that includes positive reinforcement and of course, rewards. So why should you use rewards in your classroom?

Why Classroom Rewards Matter

Rewards are an integral part of any classroom management system. Children are, by nature, extrinsically motivated. This means they need something tangible in return to feel accomplished in what they are doing or how they are behaving. 

As children grow up, there should be a shift in how often extrinsic motivational tools, like rewards, are used as we simultaneously build up their intrinsic motivation. 

Eventually, the goal is to make the complete transition and have students who function intrinsically, at least as far as disruptive behavior goes. Rewarding students for positive behaviors we observe and want to see is where we should be starting in classrooms. Rewards also promote self-regulation and encourage teamwork which are powerful skills that can follow PBIS best practices in the classroom setting as well.

15 Classroom Reward Ideas

Rewards do not need to be complicated! There are many fun, creative ideas out there that are easy to implement and most importantly, inexpensive. Using some of the ideas listed for you here will be a perfect starting place. If not, maybe they can serve as a jumping-off spot for your very own reward creations. 

100% Free & Effective 

1. Extra Recess 

Students love time with their friends during the school day to relax, socialize, and burn off excess energy. Taking them outside gives them more time to practice positive social behaviors and build friendships, which are both helpful to the students and you! 

Student Choice

2. Partner Work

This reward is easy to implement in any classroom, regardless of age. Many times, classroom seating arrangements ensure students who are overly friendly sit farthest apart and academic partnerships are data-driven. 

This means giving the students a chance to choose their partner is high leverage. 

3. Special Seating

Perfect for a Friday, this whole class reward allows students to not only complete work with a partner of choice, but choose their seat! 

This comes with, of course, some boundary setting and enforcement, but definitely a fun option that many students would be interested in. 

4. No Homework

Many schools and teachers still require at-home practice to reinforce the skills and strategies learned at school. If you are giving homework, maybe offering a chance for students to not complete an assignment would be exciting to them. 

Adventure is Out There

5. Tech Time

This reward could be carried out in various ways. One option is allowing students to enjoy time on school technology where they can play on any academic site like Epic, Prodigy, or Kodable.

Another option is creating a time in the week for students to bring in their own technology; Nintendo Switch, laptops, etc. If choosing the latter, be ready to set more strict rules and boundaries to ensure students are being safe and making positive choices. 

6. Dress Up or Down Day

If students are not used to getting a choice in what they wear day to day, this idea may shake things up! Add extra flair by creating a themed dress-up day like “cowboy day” or a dress-down day in their favorite pajamas. 

7. Virtual Field Trip

Over the past couple of years, there has been a huge increase in educational companies creating and offering engaging virtual field trip content. Lucky us! 

Check out any of your favorite national or local field trip destinations to see if there are any free virtual field trip options to choose from. 

Platforms such as Nearpod also offer short experiences that you can upload straight into lessons to supplement and expand your student’s knowledge. 

8. Picnic Lunch

Eating in the cafeteria every day can be boring and there is no way we can accommodate every student in the classroom for lunch. Also, the thought of crumbs and milk everywhere is horrifying. 

A great alternative would be to have a picnic outside. Students can also bring their blankets or quilts from home for extra comfort. 

Time to Party

9. Snack Party

Let’s face it, kids will do almost anything for a bag of Hot Cheetos or a couple of M&M’s. If your class is filled with the snackers, this reward idea will do perfectly. 

The best part about this is it does not have to all be provided by you. Ask for a couple of volunteers and I am sure you will have tons of hands raised. 

10. Ice Cream Sundae Party

Similar to the snack party idea, students will go crazy when they earn an Ice Cream Party. Grab a couple of gallons of ice cream, some whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and you’re good to go. Don’t forget the sprinkles!

11. Glow Party

This reward may take a bit more planning and money, but it is well worth it. Buying glow sticks and glow balloons in bulk from Amazon is your best option. For added fun, cover the windows with black butcher paper and create a dance playlist in advance. 

Class Reward Example

Check out this example from weareteachers.com.

12. Board Game Party

A common misconception is that students think board games are boring. Most of your students, perhaps, have never gotten a chance to play Sorry!, Clue, or Battleship. Gather some of your favorite board games and teach your students how to follow rules the good old-fashioned way. 

Sharing is Caring

13. Positive Parent Note or Call Home

An oldie but a goodie. Students absolutely love when you share with their families how they are doing in school. Calling is easier, but you can give it a more personalized touch by sending a handwritten note home. 

14. Social Media Shout-Out

If your students are active on social media and you have a teacher Twitter or Instagram account, this idea would be innovative. Creating a post or story about your class and all the wonderful things they are doing would do wonders. 

15. Q&A

Have tons of curious students who always ask a million questions? Create a jar for students to submit questions about YOU. As a reward, you could dedicate some time to answering questions from the jar or take a few at random. You never know what students will ask!

Your Class Rewards

When implemented within a strong PBIS system, rewards can be a very powerful tool to help support both you and students in the classroom. 

Positive behavior and intrinsic motivation are not just built overnight. Both are systematic and take time, patience, and consistency. 

Using a reward system in your classroom will make a difference and can lead to endless possibilities for you and your students! Still looking for the perfect incentive? You could develop your own PBIS Store or take a look at our list of free rewards for students.

All Reward Ideas for Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Family Feast
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Be a Comedian.
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Brain Break
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Stuffed Animal in Class
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Positive Note or Call Home
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Free Dress
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Homework Pass
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Uber by a Principal
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Holiday Classroom Carousel
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Trip to the Treasure Box
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
The Big Ticket
Grades 9-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Decades Party
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Hat Pass
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Graduation Celebration
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Spotlight Board
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Podcast
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free

All Reward Ideas for Elementary School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Camp Read Away
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Line Leader
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Show & Tell
Grades K-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Q&A
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Dance Party
Grades K-12
Student
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Holidays Around the World
Grades K-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Tech Time
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Morning Meeting Leader
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Extra Reading Time
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Play Games
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Design the Bulletin Board
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Brain Break
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Partner Work
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Classroom DJ
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Video Game Rewards
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Snacks
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY

All Event Ideas for Schools

All Free Reward Ideas for Schools

🎉
👑
🎁
Meet the Teacher
🎉
👑
🎁
Game of Thrones
🎉
👑
🎁
Tutor
🎉
👑
🎁
Stairway Messages
🎉
👑
🎁
Play Games
🎉
👑
🎁
School Assembly
🎉
👑
🎁
Hat Pass
🎉
👑
🎁
Partner Work
🎉
👑
🎁
Extra Recess
🎉
👑
🎁
Podcast
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Field Trip

All Reward Ideas for High School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Uber by a Principal
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Ice Cream Sundae Party
Grades K-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Decades Party
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Picnic Lunch
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Extra Computer Games
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Blood Drive
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
House Induction
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Wild ‘N Out High School Edition
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
The A-List
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Sweatshirt
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Positive Note or Call Home
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Free Dress
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Dance Party
Grades K-12
Student
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Gift Cards
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Host a Virtual Party. 🎶
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Passing Period Music
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free

All Reward Ideas for Middle School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Extra Computer Games
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Food-Themed Party
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Loudspeaker Shoutout
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Tutor
Grades 6-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Gift Cards
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Class Pet
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Uber by a Principal
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Backpack
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Digital Escape Rooms
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Serenade
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Donate $1
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Camp Read Away
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Graduation Celebration
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Kickback Vibes
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Art Contest
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Dress Up or Down Day
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free

All Student Reward & Incentive Ideas

💰
🎨
Teacher Q&A
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Snack Party
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Backpack
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
💰
🎨
Picnic Lunch
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Extra Recess
Grades K-5
Class/House
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Dress Up or Down Day
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Sports Tickets
Grades 3-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
💰
🎨
Tech Time
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Cut the Principal’s Tie
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Lunch Fast Pass
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Student Spotlight Board
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Student Messenger
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Lunch Concert
Grades 6-8
Class/House
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Special Pen
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Class Jobs
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Extra Reading Time
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free

All Virtual Reward Ideas for Schools

🎉
👑
🎁
Student Spotlight Board
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Host a Virtual Party. 🎶
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Donate $1
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Digital Escape Rooms
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Social Media Reporter
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Stickers
Grades K-5
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Morning Meeting Leader
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Extra Computer Games
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Brain Break
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Classroom DJ
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Show & Tell
Grades K-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Field Trip
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Certificate of Achievement
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Podcast
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Q&A
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Talent Show. 🎤
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Event
Free
See all Rewards

Want more ideas?

Rewards that Rock 🎸 has 100+ rewards, incentives, and event ideas to build your school culture.
Find Rewards
Learn more about the author, 
Katie Neumeier
 

In today’s society, a teacher’s job reaches far beyond the academic realm. While ensuring our students meet state and school mandated standards we must also keep classroom behavior in check, support our student’s social and emotional needs, build character, and maintain strong relationships with families and other stakeholders.

The list goes on and on. A key piece to getting all of these things accomplished is having a strong classroom management system in place that includes positive reinforcement and of course, rewards. So why should you use rewards in your classroom?

Why Classroom Rewards Matter

Rewards are an integral part of any classroom management system. Children are, by nature, extrinsically motivated. This means they need something tangible in return to feel accomplished in what they are doing or how they are behaving. 

As children grow up, there should be a shift in how often extrinsic motivational tools, like rewards, are used as we simultaneously build up their intrinsic motivation. 

Eventually, the goal is to make the complete transition and have students who function intrinsically, at least as far as disruptive behavior goes. Rewarding students for positive behaviors we observe and want to see is where we should be starting in classrooms. Rewards also promote self-regulation and encourage teamwork which are powerful skills that can follow PBIS best practices in the classroom setting as well.

15 Classroom Reward Ideas

Rewards do not need to be complicated! There are many fun, creative ideas out there that are easy to implement and most importantly, inexpensive. Using some of the ideas listed for you here will be a perfect starting place. If not, maybe they can serve as a jumping-off spot for your very own reward creations. 

100% Free & Effective 

1. Extra Recess 

Students love time with their friends during the school day to relax, socialize, and burn off excess energy. Taking them outside gives them more time to practice positive social behaviors and build friendships, which are both helpful to the students and you! 

Student Choice

2. Partner Work

This reward is easy to implement in any classroom, regardless of age. Many times, classroom seating arrangements ensure students who are overly friendly sit farthest apart and academic partnerships are data-driven. 

This means giving the students a chance to choose their partner is high leverage. 

3. Special Seating

Perfect for a Friday, this whole class reward allows students to not only complete work with a partner of choice, but choose their seat! 

This comes with, of course, some boundary setting and enforcement, but definitely a fun option that many students would be interested in. 

4. No Homework

Many schools and teachers still require at-home practice to reinforce the skills and strategies learned at school. If you are giving homework, maybe offering a chance for students to not complete an assignment would be exciting to them. 

Adventure is Out There

5. Tech Time

This reward could be carried out in various ways. One option is allowing students to enjoy time on school technology where they can play on any academic site like Epic, Prodigy, or Kodable.

Another option is creating a time in the week for students to bring in their own technology; Nintendo Switch, laptops, etc. If choosing the latter, be ready to set more strict rules and boundaries to ensure students are being safe and making positive choices. 

6. Dress Up or Down Day

If students are not used to getting a choice in what they wear day to day, this idea may shake things up! Add extra flair by creating a themed dress-up day like “cowboy day” or a dress-down day in their favorite pajamas. 

7. Virtual Field Trip

Over the past couple of years, there has been a huge increase in educational companies creating and offering engaging virtual field trip content. Lucky us! 

Check out any of your favorite national or local field trip destinations to see if there are any free virtual field trip options to choose from. 

Platforms such as Nearpod also offer short experiences that you can upload straight into lessons to supplement and expand your student’s knowledge. 

8. Picnic Lunch

Eating in the cafeteria every day can be boring and there is no way we can accommodate every student in the classroom for lunch. Also, the thought of crumbs and milk everywhere is horrifying. 

A great alternative would be to have a picnic outside. Students can also bring their blankets or quilts from home for extra comfort. 

Time to Party

9. Snack Party

Let’s face it, kids will do almost anything for a bag of Hot Cheetos or a couple of M&M’s. If your class is filled with the snackers, this reward idea will do perfectly. 

The best part about this is it does not have to all be provided by you. Ask for a couple of volunteers and I am sure you will have tons of hands raised. 

10. Ice Cream Sundae Party

Similar to the snack party idea, students will go crazy when they earn an Ice Cream Party. Grab a couple of gallons of ice cream, some whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and you’re good to go. Don’t forget the sprinkles!

11. Glow Party

This reward may take a bit more planning and money, but it is well worth it. Buying glow sticks and glow balloons in bulk from Amazon is your best option. For added fun, cover the windows with black butcher paper and create a dance playlist in advance. 

Class Reward Example

Check out this example from weareteachers.com.

12. Board Game Party

A common misconception is that students think board games are boring. Most of your students, perhaps, have never gotten a chance to play Sorry!, Clue, or Battleship. Gather some of your favorite board games and teach your students how to follow rules the good old-fashioned way. 

Sharing is Caring

13. Positive Parent Note or Call Home

An oldie but a goodie. Students absolutely love when you share with their families how they are doing in school. Calling is easier, but you can give it a more personalized touch by sending a handwritten note home. 

14. Social Media Shout-Out

If your students are active on social media and you have a teacher Twitter or Instagram account, this idea would be innovative. Creating a post or story about your class and all the wonderful things they are doing would do wonders. 

15. Q&A

Have tons of curious students who always ask a million questions? Create a jar for students to submit questions about YOU. As a reward, you could dedicate some time to answering questions from the jar or take a few at random. You never know what students will ask!

Your Class Rewards

When implemented within a strong PBIS system, rewards can be a very powerful tool to help support both you and students in the classroom. 

Positive behavior and intrinsic motivation are not just built overnight. Both are systematic and take time, patience, and consistency. 

Using a reward system in your classroom will make a difference and can lead to endless possibilities for you and your students! Still looking for the perfect incentive? You could develop your own PBIS Store or take a look at our list of free rewards for students.

All Reward Ideas for Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Game of Thrones
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Class Jobs
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Special Pen
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Career Day
Grades 3-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Host a Virtual Party. 🎶
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
TikTok with the Teacher
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Snacks
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Loudspeaker Shoutout
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Design the Bulletin Board
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Special Screening
Grades K-12
School
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Holiday Classroom Carousel
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Video Game Rewards
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Game Week
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch With the Teacher
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Hat Pass
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Snowball Fights (& Popsicles!)
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY

All Reward Ideas for Elementary School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Family Feast
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Career Day
Grades 3-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Brain Break
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Podcast
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Certificate of Achievement
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Trip to the Treasure Box
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Partner Work
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Donate $1
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Trunk or Treat
Grades K-8
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Toys
Grades K-8
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Class Book
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Camp Read Away
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Theme Party
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Field Trip
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Read Across America
Grades K-8
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Extra Recess
Grades K-5
Class/House
Privilege
Free

All Event Ideas for Schools

💰
🎨
Meme Party
💰
🎨
Theme Party
💰
🎨
Karaoke Night
💰
🎨
The Love Soiree
💰
🎨
Family Feast
💰
🎨
Glow Party
💰
🎨
STEM Field Day
💰
🎨
Camp Read Away
💰
🎨
Art Contest
💰
🎨
Fake The Funk
💰
🎨
Decades Party

All Free Reward Ideas for Schools

🎉
👑
🎁
Free Dress
🎉
👑
🎁
Blood Drive
🎉
👑
🎁
Show & Tell
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Messenger
🎉
👑
🎁
Meet the Teacher
🎉
👑
🎁
The Big Ticket
🎉
👑
🎁
Brain Break
🎉
👑
🎁
Be a Comedian.
🎉
👑
🎁
Talk Time

All Reward Ideas for High School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch Reservations
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Technology
Grades 6-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Serenade
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Old School Cookout
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Ice Cream Sundae Party
Grades K-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Podcast
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Meme Party
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Karaoke Night
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Kickback Vibes
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Blood Drive
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Tech Time
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
♟️Chess With the Principal
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Dance Party
Grades K-12
Student
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Sports Tickets
Grades 3-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Homework Pass
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Design the Bulletin Board
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY

All Reward Ideas for Middle School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Meet the Teacher
Grades K-8
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Picnic Lunch
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher for the Day
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch Fast Pass
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Play Games
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Field Trip
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Digital Escape Rooms
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Decades Party
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Ice Cream Sundae Party
Grades K-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Family Feast
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Holiday Delivery
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Snacks
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Donate $1
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Partner Work
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Seating Choice
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Old School Cookout
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe

All Student Reward & Incentive Ideas

💰
🎨
Gift Cards
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Deluxe
💰
🎨
Passing Period Music
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Certificate of Achievement
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Board Game Party
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Digital Escape Rooms
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Deluxe
💰
🎨
Color a Teacher’s Hair
Grades 9-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Cut the Principal’s Tie
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Podcast
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Design the Bulletin Board
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Hat Pass
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Virtual Field Trip
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Game of Thrones
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Pen Pouch
Grades K-8
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Extra Computer Games
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Classroom DJ
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Line Leader
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free

All Virtual Reward Ideas for Schools

🎉
👑
🎁
Podcast
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Brain Break
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Talent Show. 🎤
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Host a Virtual Party. 🎶
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Positive Note or Call Home
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Q&A
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Extra Computer Games
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Classroom DJ
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Morning Meeting Leader
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Social Media Reporter
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Show & Tell
Grades K-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Field Trip
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Digital Escape Rooms
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Spotlight Board
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Certificate of Achievement
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Stickers
Grades K-5
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
See all Rewards

Want more ideas?

Rewards that Rock 🎸 has 100+ rewards, incentives, and event ideas to build your school culture.
Find Rewards
Learn more about the author, 
Katie Neumeier
 

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