13 Free & Fun Virtual Incentives for Students

Virtual incentives take up no physical space in a classroom, can be awarded at any time, and are often always free.
By 
Becky Thal
 | 
April 11, 2022

While the vast majority of students have now fully returned to the classroom, the desire for virtual rewards has not waned. After all, they take up no physical space in a classroom, they can be awarded at any time, and in the case of the options below - they are all free! 

In fact, there are some virtual incentives that provide you with experiences you would not normally be able to take advantage of in person. 

Virtual Incentives for Students

Here is a list of some virtual incentives for students. Some ideas can be used for all grades, while others are more appropriate for a specific level, for instance, elementary or middle school. 

1. Digital Stickers, Coupons, or Tickets 

Whether you buy or make them, these tried and true incentives are still very popular. 

When students turn in work or complete an assessment online, consider putting a digital sticker on it and/or sending them a digital coupon or ticket. 

They can then collect these and trade them in for another virtual prize or classroom reward!

2. Virtual Movie Night

Try this as a class, or help organize it for your school! It makes it more fun if you can do this after school hours, and invite students and their families to participate. 

Everyone can wear their pajamas, grab their favorite snack, and enjoy watching from the comfort of their own home.

3. Lunch With a Teacher or Administrator 

While this may cater more to the younger students, we can’t underestimate the impact that 1:1 time has on kids. It’s a perfect opportunity to work on relationship building.

4. Digital Escape Rooms

This is a great activity for individuals or small groups. You can find plenty of free ones online that cover nearly every subject area, but it’s actually fun (and pretty easy) to create your own. 

Creating your own allows you to make it more customized for your class. If your students are older, you can even have them attempt to create one for the rest of the class to solve!

5. Extra Computer Games

This is pretty self-explanatory, however, it is important to keep in mind that this is about what the kids want to play - not what’s required of them. 

Try to put as few restrictions on them as possible if you are using this as a virtual incentive.

6. Digital Choice Boards

Many teachers struggle to fit in what seems like “extras,” including things like SEL and STEM activities. 

However, these are important to the development of the whole child. 

Giving students choice boards with an array of activities to pick from, will not only ensure you are incorporating these elements, but also that you are providing “voice and choice.”

7. Virtual Field Trips

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology and VR, we are able to “visit” places all over the world that we normally wouldn’t be able to. 

Discuss with your students where they would like to go! If possible, tie these virtual trips into books or stories you are reading, places you are discussing in social studies/history, or ecosystems you are learning about in science.

8. Social Media Post 

Having a social media account for your class is a great way to invite all stakeholders into your classroom, without actually physically inviting anyone. 

Most students (and definitely their families) enjoy seeing themselves recognized in a public forum like Twitter or Instagram. Creating a post about a student is a great way to celebrate them virtually!

9. Social Media Reporter 

This idea serves two purposes: rewards students while also teaching them how to be good digital citizens. Allow one or two students at a time to take the reins over your social media account for the day. This can get tricky with regards to account privacy, so make sure you are monitoring this as it’s happening. But by allowing students to take pictures of what’s going on in class, and guiding them to create captions and use appropriate hashtags, you are helping them model responsible social media behavior.

10. Positive Email or Phone Call Home 

This is similar to creating a social media post about a student, but really adds a more personal touch. In fact, if these two are used in combination, they can do a lot to boost a student’s self-esteem. 

Too often we are only emailing or calling home with negative news. It’s a refreshing change to be able to change that narrative.

11. Virtual “Visit” from a Special Person

This is a great option for students who would love to have a relative or family friend come to read a book, but physical distance makes it difficult. 

Have the person of their choice join your class via Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Virtual visits can also be an option for school events like Career Day. 

12. Student Spotlight

Include a write-up or interview with a student in a digital newsletter or on your school’s website.

13. Podcast 

These can be another great way to communicate what’s going on in your classroom with all stakeholders. Students can be the interviewer or interviewee! There are plenty of free platforms you can host your podcast on, and you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to create it.

Virtual Incentives & Your Classroom

While you don’t need to include all of these, you should have a choice of a few different virtual incentives for students. Not all students will gravitate toward the same ones. For instance, someone more introverted may not want to be in the “student spotlight,” but would definitely appreciate a phone call home.

With the rise in virtual schools across the US, and the uncertainty of where the pandemic will take us in the future, virtual incentives don’t appear to be going anywhere. 

In fact, if anything, we will be adding more ideas to the list we have. This is a perfect opportunity for educators to push themselves outside their own comfort zone and try some new ideas in their classrooms can follow PBIS best practices or even create their own PBIS Store.

For instance, if you haven’t already tried them, research digital escape rooms, how to publish a digital newsletter, or even how to start a podcast. Asking your students to help you research these ideas can even serve as attendance incentives and is a good relationship-building activity. Want incentives more specific to your grade level? Try our resources built around elementary school incentives, incentive ideas for middle school students, or incentives for high school students.

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13 Free & Fun Virtual Incentives for Students

Virtual incentives take up no physical space in a classroom, can be awarded at any time, and are often always free.
By 
Becky Thal
 | 
April 11, 2022
Prior to 2020, the coveted teacher’s prize box was what every kid wanted to get their hands in. No one at that time could have predicted what an important role virtual incentives for students would play in keeping kids engaged and focused on schoolwork. Like everything else, teachers had to get creative in coming up with ways to reward their distant learners.

While the vast majority of students have now fully returned to the classroom, the desire for virtual rewards has not waned. After all, they take up no physical space in a classroom, they can be awarded at any time, and in the case of the options below - they are all free! 

In fact, there are some virtual incentives that provide you with experiences you would not normally be able to take advantage of in person. 

Virtual Incentives for Students

Here is a list of some virtual incentives for students. Some ideas can be used for all grades, while others are more appropriate for a specific level, for instance, elementary or middle school. 

1. Digital Stickers, Coupons, or Tickets 

Whether you buy or make them, these tried and true incentives are still very popular. 

When students turn in work or complete an assessment online, consider putting a digital sticker on it and/or sending them a digital coupon or ticket. 

They can then collect these and trade them in for another virtual prize or classroom reward!

2. Virtual Movie Night

Try this as a class, or help organize it for your school! It makes it more fun if you can do this after school hours, and invite students and their families to participate. 

Everyone can wear their pajamas, grab their favorite snack, and enjoy watching from the comfort of their own home.

3. Lunch With a Teacher or Administrator 

While this may cater more to the younger students, we can’t underestimate the impact that 1:1 time has on kids. It’s a perfect opportunity to work on relationship building.

4. Digital Escape Rooms

This is a great activity for individuals or small groups. You can find plenty of free ones online that cover nearly every subject area, but it’s actually fun (and pretty easy) to create your own. 

Creating your own allows you to make it more customized for your class. If your students are older, you can even have them attempt to create one for the rest of the class to solve!

5. Extra Computer Games

This is pretty self-explanatory, however, it is important to keep in mind that this is about what the kids want to play - not what’s required of them. 

Try to put as few restrictions on them as possible if you are using this as a virtual incentive.

6. Digital Choice Boards

Many teachers struggle to fit in what seems like “extras,” including things like SEL and STEM activities. 

However, these are important to the development of the whole child. 

Giving students choice boards with an array of activities to pick from, will not only ensure you are incorporating these elements, but also that you are providing “voice and choice.”

7. Virtual Field Trips

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology and VR, we are able to “visit” places all over the world that we normally wouldn’t be able to. 

Discuss with your students where they would like to go! If possible, tie these virtual trips into books or stories you are reading, places you are discussing in social studies/history, or ecosystems you are learning about in science.

8. Social Media Post 

Having a social media account for your class is a great way to invite all stakeholders into your classroom, without actually physically inviting anyone. 

Most students (and definitely their families) enjoy seeing themselves recognized in a public forum like Twitter or Instagram. Creating a post about a student is a great way to celebrate them virtually!

9. Social Media Reporter 

This idea serves two purposes: rewards students while also teaching them how to be good digital citizens. Allow one or two students at a time to take the reins over your social media account for the day. This can get tricky with regards to account privacy, so make sure you are monitoring this as it’s happening. But by allowing students to take pictures of what’s going on in class, and guiding them to create captions and use appropriate hashtags, you are helping them model responsible social media behavior.

10. Positive Email or Phone Call Home 

This is similar to creating a social media post about a student, but really adds a more personal touch. In fact, if these two are used in combination, they can do a lot to boost a student’s self-esteem. 

Too often we are only emailing or calling home with negative news. It’s a refreshing change to be able to change that narrative.

11. Virtual “Visit” from a Special Person

This is a great option for students who would love to have a relative or family friend come to read a book, but physical distance makes it difficult. 

Have the person of their choice join your class via Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Virtual visits can also be an option for school events like Career Day. 

12. Student Spotlight

Include a write-up or interview with a student in a digital newsletter or on your school’s website.

13. Podcast 

These can be another great way to communicate what’s going on in your classroom with all stakeholders. Students can be the interviewer or interviewee! There are plenty of free platforms you can host your podcast on, and you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to create it.

Virtual Incentives & Your Classroom

While you don’t need to include all of these, you should have a choice of a few different virtual incentives for students. Not all students will gravitate toward the same ones. For instance, someone more introverted may not want to be in the “student spotlight,” but would definitely appreciate a phone call home.

With the rise in virtual schools across the US, and the uncertainty of where the pandemic will take us in the future, virtual incentives don’t appear to be going anywhere. 

In fact, if anything, we will be adding more ideas to the list we have. This is a perfect opportunity for educators to push themselves outside their own comfort zone and try some new ideas in their classrooms can follow PBIS best practices or even create their own PBIS Store.

For instance, if you haven’t already tried them, research digital escape rooms, how to publish a digital newsletter, or even how to start a podcast. Asking your students to help you research these ideas can even serve as attendance incentives and is a good relationship-building activity. Want incentives more specific to your grade level? Try our resources built around elementary school incentives, incentive ideas for middle school students, or incentives for high school students.

Subscribe via Email

Receive the best school culture resources monthly to inspire your planning.

While the vast majority of students have now fully returned to the classroom, the desire for virtual rewards has not waned. After all, they take up no physical space in a classroom, they can be awarded at any time, and in the case of the options below - they are all free! 

In fact, there are some virtual incentives that provide you with experiences you would not normally be able to take advantage of in person. 

Virtual Incentives for Students

Here is a list of some virtual incentives for students. Some ideas can be used for all grades, while others are more appropriate for a specific level, for instance, elementary or middle school. 

1. Digital Stickers, Coupons, or Tickets 

Whether you buy or make them, these tried and true incentives are still very popular. 

When students turn in work or complete an assessment online, consider putting a digital sticker on it and/or sending them a digital coupon or ticket. 

They can then collect these and trade them in for another virtual prize or classroom reward!

2. Virtual Movie Night

Try this as a class, or help organize it for your school! It makes it more fun if you can do this after school hours, and invite students and their families to participate. 

Everyone can wear their pajamas, grab their favorite snack, and enjoy watching from the comfort of their own home.

3. Lunch With a Teacher or Administrator 

While this may cater more to the younger students, we can’t underestimate the impact that 1:1 time has on kids. It’s a perfect opportunity to work on relationship building.

4. Digital Escape Rooms

This is a great activity for individuals or small groups. You can find plenty of free ones online that cover nearly every subject area, but it’s actually fun (and pretty easy) to create your own. 

Creating your own allows you to make it more customized for your class. If your students are older, you can even have them attempt to create one for the rest of the class to solve!

5. Extra Computer Games

This is pretty self-explanatory, however, it is important to keep in mind that this is about what the kids want to play - not what’s required of them. 

Try to put as few restrictions on them as possible if you are using this as a virtual incentive.

6. Digital Choice Boards

Many teachers struggle to fit in what seems like “extras,” including things like SEL and STEM activities. 

However, these are important to the development of the whole child. 

Giving students choice boards with an array of activities to pick from, will not only ensure you are incorporating these elements, but also that you are providing “voice and choice.”

7. Virtual Field Trips

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology and VR, we are able to “visit” places all over the world that we normally wouldn’t be able to. 

Discuss with your students where they would like to go! If possible, tie these virtual trips into books or stories you are reading, places you are discussing in social studies/history, or ecosystems you are learning about in science.

8. Social Media Post 

Having a social media account for your class is a great way to invite all stakeholders into your classroom, without actually physically inviting anyone. 

Most students (and definitely their families) enjoy seeing themselves recognized in a public forum like Twitter or Instagram. Creating a post about a student is a great way to celebrate them virtually!

9. Social Media Reporter 

This idea serves two purposes: rewards students while also teaching them how to be good digital citizens. Allow one or two students at a time to take the reins over your social media account for the day. This can get tricky with regards to account privacy, so make sure you are monitoring this as it’s happening. But by allowing students to take pictures of what’s going on in class, and guiding them to create captions and use appropriate hashtags, you are helping them model responsible social media behavior.

10. Positive Email or Phone Call Home 

This is similar to creating a social media post about a student, but really adds a more personal touch. In fact, if these two are used in combination, they can do a lot to boost a student’s self-esteem. 

Too often we are only emailing or calling home with negative news. It’s a refreshing change to be able to change that narrative.

11. Virtual “Visit” from a Special Person

This is a great option for students who would love to have a relative or family friend come to read a book, but physical distance makes it difficult. 

Have the person of their choice join your class via Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Virtual visits can also be an option for school events like Career Day. 

12. Student Spotlight

Include a write-up or interview with a student in a digital newsletter or on your school’s website.

13. Podcast 

These can be another great way to communicate what’s going on in your classroom with all stakeholders. Students can be the interviewer or interviewee! There are plenty of free platforms you can host your podcast on, and you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to create it.

Virtual Incentives & Your Classroom

While you don’t need to include all of these, you should have a choice of a few different virtual incentives for students. Not all students will gravitate toward the same ones. For instance, someone more introverted may not want to be in the “student spotlight,” but would definitely appreciate a phone call home.

With the rise in virtual schools across the US, and the uncertainty of where the pandemic will take us in the future, virtual incentives don’t appear to be going anywhere. 

In fact, if anything, we will be adding more ideas to the list we have. This is a perfect opportunity for educators to push themselves outside their own comfort zone and try some new ideas in their classrooms can follow PBIS best practices or even create their own PBIS Store.

For instance, if you haven’t already tried them, research digital escape rooms, how to publish a digital newsletter, or even how to start a podcast. Asking your students to help you research these ideas can even serve as attendance incentives and is a good relationship-building activity. Want incentives more specific to your grade level? Try our resources built around elementary school incentives, incentive ideas for middle school students, or incentives for high school students.

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While the vast majority of students have now fully returned to the classroom, the desire for virtual rewards has not waned. After all, they take up no physical space in a classroom, they can be awarded at any time, and in the case of the options below - they are all free! 

In fact, there are some virtual incentives that provide you with experiences you would not normally be able to take advantage of in person. 

Virtual Incentives for Students

Here is a list of some virtual incentives for students. Some ideas can be used for all grades, while others are more appropriate for a specific level, for instance, elementary or middle school. 

1. Digital Stickers, Coupons, or Tickets 

Whether you buy or make them, these tried and true incentives are still very popular. 

When students turn in work or complete an assessment online, consider putting a digital sticker on it and/or sending them a digital coupon or ticket. 

They can then collect these and trade them in for another virtual prize or classroom reward!

2. Virtual Movie Night

Try this as a class, or help organize it for your school! It makes it more fun if you can do this after school hours, and invite students and their families to participate. 

Everyone can wear their pajamas, grab their favorite snack, and enjoy watching from the comfort of their own home.

3. Lunch With a Teacher or Administrator 

While this may cater more to the younger students, we can’t underestimate the impact that 1:1 time has on kids. It’s a perfect opportunity to work on relationship building.

4. Digital Escape Rooms

This is a great activity for individuals or small groups. You can find plenty of free ones online that cover nearly every subject area, but it’s actually fun (and pretty easy) to create your own. 

Creating your own allows you to make it more customized for your class. If your students are older, you can even have them attempt to create one for the rest of the class to solve!

5. Extra Computer Games

This is pretty self-explanatory, however, it is important to keep in mind that this is about what the kids want to play - not what’s required of them. 

Try to put as few restrictions on them as possible if you are using this as a virtual incentive.

6. Digital Choice Boards

Many teachers struggle to fit in what seems like “extras,” including things like SEL and STEM activities. 

However, these are important to the development of the whole child. 

Giving students choice boards with an array of activities to pick from, will not only ensure you are incorporating these elements, but also that you are providing “voice and choice.”

7. Virtual Field Trips

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology and VR, we are able to “visit” places all over the world that we normally wouldn’t be able to. 

Discuss with your students where they would like to go! If possible, tie these virtual trips into books or stories you are reading, places you are discussing in social studies/history, or ecosystems you are learning about in science.

8. Social Media Post 

Having a social media account for your class is a great way to invite all stakeholders into your classroom, without actually physically inviting anyone. 

Most students (and definitely their families) enjoy seeing themselves recognized in a public forum like Twitter or Instagram. Creating a post about a student is a great way to celebrate them virtually!

9. Social Media Reporter 

This idea serves two purposes: rewards students while also teaching them how to be good digital citizens. Allow one or two students at a time to take the reins over your social media account for the day. This can get tricky with regards to account privacy, so make sure you are monitoring this as it’s happening. But by allowing students to take pictures of what’s going on in class, and guiding them to create captions and use appropriate hashtags, you are helping them model responsible social media behavior.

10. Positive Email or Phone Call Home 

This is similar to creating a social media post about a student, but really adds a more personal touch. In fact, if these two are used in combination, they can do a lot to boost a student’s self-esteem. 

Too often we are only emailing or calling home with negative news. It’s a refreshing change to be able to change that narrative.

11. Virtual “Visit” from a Special Person

This is a great option for students who would love to have a relative or family friend come to read a book, but physical distance makes it difficult. 

Have the person of their choice join your class via Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Virtual visits can also be an option for school events like Career Day. 

12. Student Spotlight

Include a write-up or interview with a student in a digital newsletter or on your school’s website.

13. Podcast 

These can be another great way to communicate what’s going on in your classroom with all stakeholders. Students can be the interviewer or interviewee! There are plenty of free platforms you can host your podcast on, and you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to create it.

Virtual Incentives & Your Classroom

While you don’t need to include all of these, you should have a choice of a few different virtual incentives for students. Not all students will gravitate toward the same ones. For instance, someone more introverted may not want to be in the “student spotlight,” but would definitely appreciate a phone call home.

With the rise in virtual schools across the US, and the uncertainty of where the pandemic will take us in the future, virtual incentives don’t appear to be going anywhere. 

In fact, if anything, we will be adding more ideas to the list we have. This is a perfect opportunity for educators to push themselves outside their own comfort zone and try some new ideas in their classrooms can follow PBIS best practices or even create their own PBIS Store.

For instance, if you haven’t already tried them, research digital escape rooms, how to publish a digital newsletter, or even how to start a podcast. Asking your students to help you research these ideas can even serve as attendance incentives and is a good relationship-building activity. Want incentives more specific to your grade level? Try our resources built around elementary school incentives, incentive ideas for middle school students, or incentives for high school students.

13 Free & Fun Virtual Incentives for Students

Virtual incentives take up no physical space in a classroom, can be awarded at any time, and are often always free.
By 
Becky Thal
 | 
April 11, 2022

While the vast majority of students have now fully returned to the classroom, the desire for virtual rewards has not waned. After all, they take up no physical space in a classroom, they can be awarded at any time, and in the case of the options below - they are all free! 

In fact, there are some virtual incentives that provide you with experiences you would not normally be able to take advantage of in person. 

Virtual Incentives for Students

Here is a list of some virtual incentives for students. Some ideas can be used for all grades, while others are more appropriate for a specific level, for instance, elementary or middle school. 

1. Digital Stickers, Coupons, or Tickets 

Whether you buy or make them, these tried and true incentives are still very popular. 

When students turn in work or complete an assessment online, consider putting a digital sticker on it and/or sending them a digital coupon or ticket. 

They can then collect these and trade them in for another virtual prize or classroom reward!

2. Virtual Movie Night

Try this as a class, or help organize it for your school! It makes it more fun if you can do this after school hours, and invite students and their families to participate. 

Everyone can wear their pajamas, grab their favorite snack, and enjoy watching from the comfort of their own home.

3. Lunch With a Teacher or Administrator 

While this may cater more to the younger students, we can’t underestimate the impact that 1:1 time has on kids. It’s a perfect opportunity to work on relationship building.

4. Digital Escape Rooms

This is a great activity for individuals or small groups. You can find plenty of free ones online that cover nearly every subject area, but it’s actually fun (and pretty easy) to create your own. 

Creating your own allows you to make it more customized for your class. If your students are older, you can even have them attempt to create one for the rest of the class to solve!

5. Extra Computer Games

This is pretty self-explanatory, however, it is important to keep in mind that this is about what the kids want to play - not what’s required of them. 

Try to put as few restrictions on them as possible if you are using this as a virtual incentive.

6. Digital Choice Boards

Many teachers struggle to fit in what seems like “extras,” including things like SEL and STEM activities. 

However, these are important to the development of the whole child. 

Giving students choice boards with an array of activities to pick from, will not only ensure you are incorporating these elements, but also that you are providing “voice and choice.”

7. Virtual Field Trips

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology and VR, we are able to “visit” places all over the world that we normally wouldn’t be able to. 

Discuss with your students where they would like to go! If possible, tie these virtual trips into books or stories you are reading, places you are discussing in social studies/history, or ecosystems you are learning about in science.

8. Social Media Post 

Having a social media account for your class is a great way to invite all stakeholders into your classroom, without actually physically inviting anyone. 

Most students (and definitely their families) enjoy seeing themselves recognized in a public forum like Twitter or Instagram. Creating a post about a student is a great way to celebrate them virtually!

9. Social Media Reporter 

This idea serves two purposes: rewards students while also teaching them how to be good digital citizens. Allow one or two students at a time to take the reins over your social media account for the day. This can get tricky with regards to account privacy, so make sure you are monitoring this as it’s happening. But by allowing students to take pictures of what’s going on in class, and guiding them to create captions and use appropriate hashtags, you are helping them model responsible social media behavior.

10. Positive Email or Phone Call Home 

This is similar to creating a social media post about a student, but really adds a more personal touch. In fact, if these two are used in combination, they can do a lot to boost a student’s self-esteem. 

Too often we are only emailing or calling home with negative news. It’s a refreshing change to be able to change that narrative.

11. Virtual “Visit” from a Special Person

This is a great option for students who would love to have a relative or family friend come to read a book, but physical distance makes it difficult. 

Have the person of their choice join your class via Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Virtual visits can also be an option for school events like Career Day. 

12. Student Spotlight

Include a write-up or interview with a student in a digital newsletter or on your school’s website.

13. Podcast 

These can be another great way to communicate what’s going on in your classroom with all stakeholders. Students can be the interviewer or interviewee! There are plenty of free platforms you can host your podcast on, and you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to create it.

Virtual Incentives & Your Classroom

While you don’t need to include all of these, you should have a choice of a few different virtual incentives for students. Not all students will gravitate toward the same ones. For instance, someone more introverted may not want to be in the “student spotlight,” but would definitely appreciate a phone call home.

With the rise in virtual schools across the US, and the uncertainty of where the pandemic will take us in the future, virtual incentives don’t appear to be going anywhere. 

In fact, if anything, we will be adding more ideas to the list we have. This is a perfect opportunity for educators to push themselves outside their own comfort zone and try some new ideas in their classrooms can follow PBIS best practices or even create their own PBIS Store.

For instance, if you haven’t already tried them, research digital escape rooms, how to publish a digital newsletter, or even how to start a podcast. Asking your students to help you research these ideas can even serve as attendance incentives and is a good relationship-building activity. Want incentives more specific to your grade level? Try our resources built around elementary school incentives, incentive ideas for middle school students, or incentives for high school students.

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13 Free & Fun Virtual Incentives for Students

Virtual incentives take up no physical space in a classroom, can be awarded at any time, and are often always free.
By 
Becky Thal
 | 
April 11, 2022

About the Event

While the vast majority of students have now fully returned to the classroom, the desire for virtual rewards has not waned. After all, they take up no physical space in a classroom, they can be awarded at any time, and in the case of the options below - they are all free! 

In fact, there are some virtual incentives that provide you with experiences you would not normally be able to take advantage of in person. 

Virtual Incentives for Students

Here is a list of some virtual incentives for students. Some ideas can be used for all grades, while others are more appropriate for a specific level, for instance, elementary or middle school. 

1. Digital Stickers, Coupons, or Tickets 

Whether you buy or make them, these tried and true incentives are still very popular. 

When students turn in work or complete an assessment online, consider putting a digital sticker on it and/or sending them a digital coupon or ticket. 

They can then collect these and trade them in for another virtual prize or classroom reward!

2. Virtual Movie Night

Try this as a class, or help organize it for your school! It makes it more fun if you can do this after school hours, and invite students and their families to participate. 

Everyone can wear their pajamas, grab their favorite snack, and enjoy watching from the comfort of their own home.

3. Lunch With a Teacher or Administrator 

While this may cater more to the younger students, we can’t underestimate the impact that 1:1 time has on kids. It’s a perfect opportunity to work on relationship building.

4. Digital Escape Rooms

This is a great activity for individuals or small groups. You can find plenty of free ones online that cover nearly every subject area, but it’s actually fun (and pretty easy) to create your own. 

Creating your own allows you to make it more customized for your class. If your students are older, you can even have them attempt to create one for the rest of the class to solve!

5. Extra Computer Games

This is pretty self-explanatory, however, it is important to keep in mind that this is about what the kids want to play - not what’s required of them. 

Try to put as few restrictions on them as possible if you are using this as a virtual incentive.

6. Digital Choice Boards

Many teachers struggle to fit in what seems like “extras,” including things like SEL and STEM activities. 

However, these are important to the development of the whole child. 

Giving students choice boards with an array of activities to pick from, will not only ensure you are incorporating these elements, but also that you are providing “voice and choice.”

7. Virtual Field Trips

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology and VR, we are able to “visit” places all over the world that we normally wouldn’t be able to. 

Discuss with your students where they would like to go! If possible, tie these virtual trips into books or stories you are reading, places you are discussing in social studies/history, or ecosystems you are learning about in science.

8. Social Media Post 

Having a social media account for your class is a great way to invite all stakeholders into your classroom, without actually physically inviting anyone. 

Most students (and definitely their families) enjoy seeing themselves recognized in a public forum like Twitter or Instagram. Creating a post about a student is a great way to celebrate them virtually!

9. Social Media Reporter 

This idea serves two purposes: rewards students while also teaching them how to be good digital citizens. Allow one or two students at a time to take the reins over your social media account for the day. This can get tricky with regards to account privacy, so make sure you are monitoring this as it’s happening. But by allowing students to take pictures of what’s going on in class, and guiding them to create captions and use appropriate hashtags, you are helping them model responsible social media behavior.

10. Positive Email or Phone Call Home 

This is similar to creating a social media post about a student, but really adds a more personal touch. In fact, if these two are used in combination, they can do a lot to boost a student’s self-esteem. 

Too often we are only emailing or calling home with negative news. It’s a refreshing change to be able to change that narrative.

11. Virtual “Visit” from a Special Person

This is a great option for students who would love to have a relative or family friend come to read a book, but physical distance makes it difficult. 

Have the person of their choice join your class via Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Virtual visits can also be an option for school events like Career Day. 

12. Student Spotlight

Include a write-up or interview with a student in a digital newsletter or on your school’s website.

13. Podcast 

These can be another great way to communicate what’s going on in your classroom with all stakeholders. Students can be the interviewer or interviewee! There are plenty of free platforms you can host your podcast on, and you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to create it.

Virtual Incentives & Your Classroom

While you don’t need to include all of these, you should have a choice of a few different virtual incentives for students. Not all students will gravitate toward the same ones. For instance, someone more introverted may not want to be in the “student spotlight,” but would definitely appreciate a phone call home.

With the rise in virtual schools across the US, and the uncertainty of where the pandemic will take us in the future, virtual incentives don’t appear to be going anywhere. 

In fact, if anything, we will be adding more ideas to the list we have. This is a perfect opportunity for educators to push themselves outside their own comfort zone and try some new ideas in their classrooms can follow PBIS best practices or even create their own PBIS Store.

For instance, if you haven’t already tried them, research digital escape rooms, how to publish a digital newsletter, or even how to start a podcast. Asking your students to help you research these ideas can even serve as attendance incentives and is a good relationship-building activity. Want incentives more specific to your grade level? Try our resources built around elementary school incentives, incentive ideas for middle school students, or incentives for high school students.

Register Now

About the Event

While the vast majority of students have now fully returned to the classroom, the desire for virtual rewards has not waned. After all, they take up no physical space in a classroom, they can be awarded at any time, and in the case of the options below - they are all free! 

In fact, there are some virtual incentives that provide you with experiences you would not normally be able to take advantage of in person. 

Virtual Incentives for Students

Here is a list of some virtual incentives for students. Some ideas can be used for all grades, while others are more appropriate for a specific level, for instance, elementary or middle school. 

1. Digital Stickers, Coupons, or Tickets 

Whether you buy or make them, these tried and true incentives are still very popular. 

When students turn in work or complete an assessment online, consider putting a digital sticker on it and/or sending them a digital coupon or ticket. 

They can then collect these and trade them in for another virtual prize or classroom reward!

2. Virtual Movie Night

Try this as a class, or help organize it for your school! It makes it more fun if you can do this after school hours, and invite students and their families to participate. 

Everyone can wear their pajamas, grab their favorite snack, and enjoy watching from the comfort of their own home.

3. Lunch With a Teacher or Administrator 

While this may cater more to the younger students, we can’t underestimate the impact that 1:1 time has on kids. It’s a perfect opportunity to work on relationship building.

4. Digital Escape Rooms

This is a great activity for individuals or small groups. You can find plenty of free ones online that cover nearly every subject area, but it’s actually fun (and pretty easy) to create your own. 

Creating your own allows you to make it more customized for your class. If your students are older, you can even have them attempt to create one for the rest of the class to solve!

5. Extra Computer Games

This is pretty self-explanatory, however, it is important to keep in mind that this is about what the kids want to play - not what’s required of them. 

Try to put as few restrictions on them as possible if you are using this as a virtual incentive.

6. Digital Choice Boards

Many teachers struggle to fit in what seems like “extras,” including things like SEL and STEM activities. 

However, these are important to the development of the whole child. 

Giving students choice boards with an array of activities to pick from, will not only ensure you are incorporating these elements, but also that you are providing “voice and choice.”

7. Virtual Field Trips

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology and VR, we are able to “visit” places all over the world that we normally wouldn’t be able to. 

Discuss with your students where they would like to go! If possible, tie these virtual trips into books or stories you are reading, places you are discussing in social studies/history, or ecosystems you are learning about in science.

8. Social Media Post 

Having a social media account for your class is a great way to invite all stakeholders into your classroom, without actually physically inviting anyone. 

Most students (and definitely their families) enjoy seeing themselves recognized in a public forum like Twitter or Instagram. Creating a post about a student is a great way to celebrate them virtually!

9. Social Media Reporter 

This idea serves two purposes: rewards students while also teaching them how to be good digital citizens. Allow one or two students at a time to take the reins over your social media account for the day. This can get tricky with regards to account privacy, so make sure you are monitoring this as it’s happening. But by allowing students to take pictures of what’s going on in class, and guiding them to create captions and use appropriate hashtags, you are helping them model responsible social media behavior.

10. Positive Email or Phone Call Home 

This is similar to creating a social media post about a student, but really adds a more personal touch. In fact, if these two are used in combination, they can do a lot to boost a student’s self-esteem. 

Too often we are only emailing or calling home with negative news. It’s a refreshing change to be able to change that narrative.

11. Virtual “Visit” from a Special Person

This is a great option for students who would love to have a relative or family friend come to read a book, but physical distance makes it difficult. 

Have the person of their choice join your class via Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Virtual visits can also be an option for school events like Career Day. 

12. Student Spotlight

Include a write-up or interview with a student in a digital newsletter or on your school’s website.

13. Podcast 

These can be another great way to communicate what’s going on in your classroom with all stakeholders. Students can be the interviewer or interviewee! There are plenty of free platforms you can host your podcast on, and you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to create it.

Virtual Incentives & Your Classroom

While you don’t need to include all of these, you should have a choice of a few different virtual incentives for students. Not all students will gravitate toward the same ones. For instance, someone more introverted may not want to be in the “student spotlight,” but would definitely appreciate a phone call home.

With the rise in virtual schools across the US, and the uncertainty of where the pandemic will take us in the future, virtual incentives don’t appear to be going anywhere. 

In fact, if anything, we will be adding more ideas to the list we have. This is a perfect opportunity for educators to push themselves outside their own comfort zone and try some new ideas in their classrooms can follow PBIS best practices or even create their own PBIS Store.

For instance, if you haven’t already tried them, research digital escape rooms, how to publish a digital newsletter, or even how to start a podcast. Asking your students to help you research these ideas can even serve as attendance incentives and is a good relationship-building activity. Want incentives more specific to your grade level? Try our resources built around elementary school incentives, incentive ideas for middle school students, or incentives for high school students.

About the Presenter

Becky Thal currently works as an edtech consultant in the field of marketing. Previous roles have included 5th grade math/science teacher and advertising executive. Becky is active in many online communities, as well as her local community. She is always open to collaborating on new projects! In her spare time, Becky enjoys trips to the beach, trying new restaurants, and attending her kids’ various sports games and events. She lives with her husband, three children, and Labradoodle, in New Jersey.

Subscribe via Email

Receive the best school culture resources monthly to inspire your planning.

13 Free & Fun Virtual Incentives for Students

Virtual incentives take up no physical space in a classroom, can be awarded at any time, and are often always free.
By 
Becky Thal
 | 
April 11, 2022

Prior to 2020, the coveted teacher’s prize box was what every kid wanted to get their hands in. No one at that time could have predicted what an important role virtual incentives for students would play in keeping kids engaged and focused on schoolwork. Like everything else, teachers had to get creative in coming up with ways to reward their distant learners.

While the vast majority of students have now fully returned to the classroom, the desire for virtual rewards has not waned. After all, they take up no physical space in a classroom, they can be awarded at any time, and in the case of the options below - they are all free! 

In fact, there are some virtual incentives that provide you with experiences you would not normally be able to take advantage of in person. 

Virtual Incentives for Students

Here is a list of some virtual incentives for students. Some ideas can be used for all grades, while others are more appropriate for a specific level, for instance, elementary or middle school. 

1. Digital Stickers, Coupons, or Tickets 

Whether you buy or make them, these tried and true incentives are still very popular. 

When students turn in work or complete an assessment online, consider putting a digital sticker on it and/or sending them a digital coupon or ticket. 

They can then collect these and trade them in for another virtual prize or classroom reward!

2. Virtual Movie Night

Try this as a class, or help organize it for your school! It makes it more fun if you can do this after school hours, and invite students and their families to participate. 

Everyone can wear their pajamas, grab their favorite snack, and enjoy watching from the comfort of their own home.

3. Lunch With a Teacher or Administrator 

While this may cater more to the younger students, we can’t underestimate the impact that 1:1 time has on kids. It’s a perfect opportunity to work on relationship building.

4. Digital Escape Rooms

This is a great activity for individuals or small groups. You can find plenty of free ones online that cover nearly every subject area, but it’s actually fun (and pretty easy) to create your own. 

Creating your own allows you to make it more customized for your class. If your students are older, you can even have them attempt to create one for the rest of the class to solve!

5. Extra Computer Games

This is pretty self-explanatory, however, it is important to keep in mind that this is about what the kids want to play - not what’s required of them. 

Try to put as few restrictions on them as possible if you are using this as a virtual incentive.

6. Digital Choice Boards

Many teachers struggle to fit in what seems like “extras,” including things like SEL and STEM activities. 

However, these are important to the development of the whole child. 

Giving students choice boards with an array of activities to pick from, will not only ensure you are incorporating these elements, but also that you are providing “voice and choice.”

7. Virtual Field Trips

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology and VR, we are able to “visit” places all over the world that we normally wouldn’t be able to. 

Discuss with your students where they would like to go! If possible, tie these virtual trips into books or stories you are reading, places you are discussing in social studies/history, or ecosystems you are learning about in science.

8. Social Media Post 

Having a social media account for your class is a great way to invite all stakeholders into your classroom, without actually physically inviting anyone. 

Most students (and definitely their families) enjoy seeing themselves recognized in a public forum like Twitter or Instagram. Creating a post about a student is a great way to celebrate them virtually!

9. Social Media Reporter 

This idea serves two purposes: rewards students while also teaching them how to be good digital citizens. Allow one or two students at a time to take the reins over your social media account for the day. This can get tricky with regards to account privacy, so make sure you are monitoring this as it’s happening. But by allowing students to take pictures of what’s going on in class, and guiding them to create captions and use appropriate hashtags, you are helping them model responsible social media behavior.

10. Positive Email or Phone Call Home 

This is similar to creating a social media post about a student, but really adds a more personal touch. In fact, if these two are used in combination, they can do a lot to boost a student’s self-esteem. 

Too often we are only emailing or calling home with negative news. It’s a refreshing change to be able to change that narrative.

11. Virtual “Visit” from a Special Person

This is a great option for students who would love to have a relative or family friend come to read a book, but physical distance makes it difficult. 

Have the person of their choice join your class via Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Virtual visits can also be an option for school events like Career Day. 

12. Student Spotlight

Include a write-up or interview with a student in a digital newsletter or on your school’s website.

13. Podcast 

These can be another great way to communicate what’s going on in your classroom with all stakeholders. Students can be the interviewer or interviewee! There are plenty of free platforms you can host your podcast on, and you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to create it.

Virtual Incentives & Your Classroom

While you don’t need to include all of these, you should have a choice of a few different virtual incentives for students. Not all students will gravitate toward the same ones. For instance, someone more introverted may not want to be in the “student spotlight,” but would definitely appreciate a phone call home.

With the rise in virtual schools across the US, and the uncertainty of where the pandemic will take us in the future, virtual incentives don’t appear to be going anywhere. 

In fact, if anything, we will be adding more ideas to the list we have. This is a perfect opportunity for educators to push themselves outside their own comfort zone and try some new ideas in their classrooms can follow PBIS best practices or even create their own PBIS Store.

For instance, if you haven’t already tried them, research digital escape rooms, how to publish a digital newsletter, or even how to start a podcast. Asking your students to help you research these ideas can even serve as attendance incentives and is a good relationship-building activity. Want incentives more specific to your grade level? Try our resources built around elementary school incentives, incentive ideas for middle school students, or incentives for high school students.

All Reward Ideas for Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Emcee the Announcements
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Talent Show. 🎤
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
The Big Ticket
Grades 9-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher for the Day
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
TikTok with the Teacher
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Spotlight Board
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Tech Time
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Video Game Rewards
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Wristband
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Donate $1
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch with an Admin
Grades K-8
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Silly School Leader
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Drop Lowest Quiz
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
School Spirit Day
Grades K-12
School
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Snack Party
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Sports Tickets
Grades 3-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe

All Reward Ideas for Elementary School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Podcast
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Backpack
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Hallway High-Five
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Classroom DJ
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Spotlight Board
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch with an Admin
Grades K-8
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Line Leader
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Camp Read Away
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Messenger
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Snowball Fights (& Popsicles!)
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Social Media Reporter
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Class Pet
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Theme Party
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Sports Tickets
Grades 3-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Video Game Rewards
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Design the Bulletin Board
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY

All Event Ideas for Schools

All Free Reward Ideas for Schools

🎉
👑
🎁
Brain Break
🎉
👑
🎁
Show & Tell
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch Fast Pass
🎉
👑
🎁
School Spirit Day
🎉
👑
🎁
Special Screening
🎉
👑
🎁
Seat Swap
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Field Trip
🎉
👑
🎁
Meet the Teacher

All Reward Ideas for High School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Holidays Around the World
Grades K-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Operate Equipment.
Grades 9-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Karaoke Night
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Q&A
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Career Day
Grades 3-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Sports Tickets
Grades 3-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Digital Escape Rooms
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
School Supplies & Merch
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Stairway Messages
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Graduation Celebration
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Brain Break
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Emcee the Announcements
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Class Pet
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Firebird of the Month
Grades K-12
Student
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Be a Comedian.
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Social Media Reporter
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free

All Reward Ideas for Middle School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Meet the Teacher
Grades K-8
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Graduation Celebration
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch Concert
Grades 6-8
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Books
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Positive Note or Call Home
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Social Media Reporter
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Hallway High-Five
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Read Across America
Grades K-8
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Uber by a Principal
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Technology
Grades 6-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Loudspeaker Shoutout
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Morning Meeting Leader
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
School Assembly
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Holiday Delivery
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
STEM Field Day
Grades K-8
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Vote
Grades 6-8
Student
Privilege
Free

All Student Reward & Incentive Ideas

💰
🎨
Silly School Leader
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Silly Science Experiments
Grades K-5
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Extra Reading Time
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Morning Meeting Leader
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Dress Up or Down Day
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Teacher v Student Competition
Grades 6-12
School
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
School Supplies & Merch
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
💰
🎨
Virtual Field Trip
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Picnic Lunch
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Wristband
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Design the Bulletin Board
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Gift Cards
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Deluxe
💰
🎨
Certificate of Achievement
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Uber by a Principal
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Technology
Grades 6-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
💰
🎨
Assist the Custodian.
Grades 6-8
Student
Privilege
Free

All Virtual Reward Ideas for Schools

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

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Receive the best school culture resources monthly to inspire your planning.

13 Free & Fun Virtual Incentives for Students

Virtual incentives take up no physical space in a classroom, can be awarded at any time, and are often always free.
By 
Becky Thal
 | 
April 11, 2022

Prior to 2020, the coveted teacher’s prize box was what every kid wanted to get their hands in. No one at that time could have predicted what an important role virtual incentives for students would play in keeping kids engaged and focused on schoolwork. Like everything else, teachers had to get creative in coming up with ways to reward their distant learners.

While the vast majority of students have now fully returned to the classroom, the desire for virtual rewards has not waned. After all, they take up no physical space in a classroom, they can be awarded at any time, and in the case of the options below - they are all free! 

In fact, there are some virtual incentives that provide you with experiences you would not normally be able to take advantage of in person. 

Virtual Incentives for Students

Here is a list of some virtual incentives for students. Some ideas can be used for all grades, while others are more appropriate for a specific level, for instance, elementary or middle school. 

1. Digital Stickers, Coupons, or Tickets 

Whether you buy or make them, these tried and true incentives are still very popular. 

When students turn in work or complete an assessment online, consider putting a digital sticker on it and/or sending them a digital coupon or ticket. 

They can then collect these and trade them in for another virtual prize or classroom reward!

2. Virtual Movie Night

Try this as a class, or help organize it for your school! It makes it more fun if you can do this after school hours, and invite students and their families to participate. 

Everyone can wear their pajamas, grab their favorite snack, and enjoy watching from the comfort of their own home.

3. Lunch With a Teacher or Administrator 

While this may cater more to the younger students, we can’t underestimate the impact that 1:1 time has on kids. It’s a perfect opportunity to work on relationship building.

4. Digital Escape Rooms

This is a great activity for individuals or small groups. You can find plenty of free ones online that cover nearly every subject area, but it’s actually fun (and pretty easy) to create your own. 

Creating your own allows you to make it more customized for your class. If your students are older, you can even have them attempt to create one for the rest of the class to solve!

5. Extra Computer Games

This is pretty self-explanatory, however, it is important to keep in mind that this is about what the kids want to play - not what’s required of them. 

Try to put as few restrictions on them as possible if you are using this as a virtual incentive.

6. Digital Choice Boards

Many teachers struggle to fit in what seems like “extras,” including things like SEL and STEM activities. 

However, these are important to the development of the whole child. 

Giving students choice boards with an array of activities to pick from, will not only ensure you are incorporating these elements, but also that you are providing “voice and choice.”

7. Virtual Field Trips

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology and VR, we are able to “visit” places all over the world that we normally wouldn’t be able to. 

Discuss with your students where they would like to go! If possible, tie these virtual trips into books or stories you are reading, places you are discussing in social studies/history, or ecosystems you are learning about in science.

8. Social Media Post 

Having a social media account for your class is a great way to invite all stakeholders into your classroom, without actually physically inviting anyone. 

Most students (and definitely their families) enjoy seeing themselves recognized in a public forum like Twitter or Instagram. Creating a post about a student is a great way to celebrate them virtually!

9. Social Media Reporter 

This idea serves two purposes: rewards students while also teaching them how to be good digital citizens. Allow one or two students at a time to take the reins over your social media account for the day. This can get tricky with regards to account privacy, so make sure you are monitoring this as it’s happening. But by allowing students to take pictures of what’s going on in class, and guiding them to create captions and use appropriate hashtags, you are helping them model responsible social media behavior.

10. Positive Email or Phone Call Home 

This is similar to creating a social media post about a student, but really adds a more personal touch. In fact, if these two are used in combination, they can do a lot to boost a student’s self-esteem. 

Too often we are only emailing or calling home with negative news. It’s a refreshing change to be able to change that narrative.

11. Virtual “Visit” from a Special Person

This is a great option for students who would love to have a relative or family friend come to read a book, but physical distance makes it difficult. 

Have the person of their choice join your class via Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Virtual visits can also be an option for school events like Career Day. 

12. Student Spotlight

Include a write-up or interview with a student in a digital newsletter or on your school’s website.

13. Podcast 

These can be another great way to communicate what’s going on in your classroom with all stakeholders. Students can be the interviewer or interviewee! There are plenty of free platforms you can host your podcast on, and you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to create it.

Virtual Incentives & Your Classroom

While you don’t need to include all of these, you should have a choice of a few different virtual incentives for students. Not all students will gravitate toward the same ones. For instance, someone more introverted may not want to be in the “student spotlight,” but would definitely appreciate a phone call home.

With the rise in virtual schools across the US, and the uncertainty of where the pandemic will take us in the future, virtual incentives don’t appear to be going anywhere. 

In fact, if anything, we will be adding more ideas to the list we have. This is a perfect opportunity for educators to push themselves outside their own comfort zone and try some new ideas in their classrooms can follow PBIS best practices or even create their own PBIS Store.

For instance, if you haven’t already tried them, research digital escape rooms, how to publish a digital newsletter, or even how to start a podcast. Asking your students to help you research these ideas can even serve as attendance incentives and is a good relationship-building activity. Want incentives more specific to your grade level? Try our resources built around elementary school incentives, incentive ideas for middle school students, or incentives for high school students.

All Reward Ideas for Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Graduation Celebration
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Hat Pass
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Parking Spots
Grades 9-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Class Pet
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch Fast Pass
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Rolling Chair Rental
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Blood Drive
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Dress Up or Down Day
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Snowball Fights (& Popsicles!)
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Color a Teacher’s Hair
Grades 9-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Awards Show Afterparty
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Wristband
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Stuffed Animal in Class
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Bonfire
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Emcee the Announcements
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Talk Time
Grades 6-8
Student
Privilege
Free

All Reward Ideas for Elementary School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Donate $1
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Meet the Teacher
Grades K-8
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Backpack
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
STEM Field Day
Grades K-8
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Wristband
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Spotlight Board
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Dress Up or Down Day
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Game of Thrones
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Holidays Around the World
Grades K-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Hallway High-Five
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Talent Show. 🎤
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Free Dress
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Positive Note or Call Home
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Video Game Rewards
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Snack Party
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Extra Computer Games
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free

All Event Ideas for Schools

💰
🎨
Fake The Funk
💰
🎨
Glow Party
💰
🎨
Silent Disco
💰
🎨
Blood Drive
💰
🎨
Meme Party
💰
🎨
Career Day
💰
🎨
Theme Party
💰
🎨
The Love Soiree
💰
🎨
Kickback Vibes
💰
🎨
Movie Night

All Free Reward Ideas for Schools

🎉
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🎁
Be a Comedian.
🎉
👑
🎁
Line Leader
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Q&A
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch Fast Pass
🎉
👑
🎁
Blood Drive
🎉
👑
🎁
Extra Recess
🎉
👑
🎁
Camp Read Away

All Reward Ideas for High School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Sweatshirt
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Movie Night
Grades 9-12
Student
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Q&A
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Game-Based Simulation Learning
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Create the Seating Chart
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
School Spirit Day
Grades K-12
School
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Positive Note or Call Home
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Bonfire
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Stairway Messages
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Amazing Race
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Meme Party
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Anime Themed Party
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Game Week
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Loudspeaker Shoutout
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Get-to-Know-You Bingo
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch with an Admin
Grades K-8
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY

All Reward Ideas for Middle School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Sweatshirt
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Seating Choice
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Partner Work
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher for the Day
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
School Spirit Day
Grades K-12
School
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Design the Bulletin Board
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Read Across America
Grades K-8
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Talk Time
Grades 6-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Firebird of the Month
Grades K-12
Student
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Wristband
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
School Supplies & Merch
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Digital Escape Rooms
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Vote
Grades 6-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Hallway High-Five
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Theme Party
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Rolling Chair Rental
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY

All Student Reward & Incentive Ideas

💰
🎨
Student Messenger
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Holiday Delivery
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Toys
Grades K-8
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Lunch Reservations
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Lunch With the Teacher
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Game of Thrones
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Principal for a Day
Grades K-8
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
TikTok with the Teacher
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Operate Equipment.
Grades 9-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Design the Bulletin Board
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Play Games
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
♟️Chess With the Principal
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Morning Meeting Leader
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Extra Recess
Grades K-5
Class/House
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Cut the Principal’s Tie
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Sports Tickets
Grades 3-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe

All Virtual Reward Ideas for Schools

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

Want more ideas?

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

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