It natural for kids to need boundaries or a set of rules to follow.
It's how they learn to manage their behavior and how they achieve structure in their lives.
Simply put, if they have a set of rules to follow they know where they stand.
Parents have at their disposal various behavior modification tools that can help in the process of providing structure for their kids such as reward charts.
It stands to reason that sometimes parents need their own set of rules to get the most out of the tools they use.
Allow me to share some absolutely fundamental rules when using reward charts for kids.

• Golden Rule # 1 - Be positive when using the charts.
  Remember that this is a positive reinforcement tool.
  It can only work if your kids have a positive attitude toward it, and want to take part in it.
  Remember, in relation to reward charts, if your kids feel your negativity or hear your criticism it is unlikely they will embrace it.
  And if your children are not on board then the reward plan is doomed to fail.
  
• Golden Rule # 2 - Make sure you are consistent.
  This is very important because for a behavior chart to work your kids need to see that you are serious about it.
  That means positively reminding them about their obligations, praising and rewarding them when they achieve the goals, and following through on any agreements you may have made with your children.
  Do not forget that showing an on-going interest in the chart, and being consistent with it's use will make it more likely to work.
  
• Golden Rule # 3 - Be realistic when the goals.
  This is vital because if a child is faced with an unreasonable expectations or they find the goals of the rewards chart too difficult then you have lost before you have even started.
  You need too look at your child's age, their development, and their personality when setting your expectations about what goals to set when you decide to introduce a reward chart.
  

Other guidelines to follow can include:

• Involve your children in the planning.
  
• Stick to your promises.
  If your child earns a sticker or reward then hand it over.
  
• Don't take away rewards or stickers.
  Remember a reward chart is all about positive reinforcement.
  
• Keep it simple.
  Don't overwhelm your child with too many expectations.
  
• Always be on the lookout for those moments when you can heap praise on your child.
  It easy to spot the bad behavior but sometimes it take a bit more effort from parents to spot the good behavior.
  

By following these reward chart rules, especially the 3 golden rules, your child is much more likely to be successful when using the reward charts.
And you will find that your child is more focused on their good behavior and you will be more focused on recognizing their good behavior.