Free Printable Behavior Charts for Kids
While there are already several pages on my site where you can download free printable behavior charts, I wanted to include this collection too—because these specific charts can be especially effective when used as token boards. Token systems are one of the most powerful, research-backed strategies for improving behavior, particularly for children who struggle with compliance, focus, or self-regulation.
Whether your child has ADHD, displays characteristics of autism, or simply needs extra motivation to follow routines, printable behavior charts can provide the consistency and visual reinforcement that many kids need to succeed. These charts are simple, flexible, and most importantly—fun for kids to use!
How Printable Behavior Charts Work as Token Boards
A token board is a positive reinforcement tool that helps children see their progress toward earning a reward. Every time your child demonstrates a desired behavior—such as following directions, using gentle hands, or completing a chore—they earn a token. The token can be represented by a sticker, small picture, or laminated piece that’s placed onto the chart.
When all the tokens are earned, the child receives a predetermined reward. This could be something small like a favorite activity, special snack, or a few minutes of screen time.
Unlike general reward charts that track behavior over a long period, token boards break goals into short, manageable steps. This makes them ideal for children who may become discouraged easily or who benefit from frequent, concrete feedback.
For example:
- A preschooler learning to share might earn one basketball token each time they take turns without reminders.
- A child with autism could earn a flower token for using a calm voice instead of yelling.
- A student with ADHD might get a token each time they finish a short homework segment before taking a break.
Over time, your child learns that positive behavior leads to positive outcomes—helping to build independence and self-regulation.
How Printable Behavior Charts Work as Token Boards
Choosing and Setting Up Your Printable Behavior Chart
The basketball and flower-themed behavior charts on this page are among the most popular printable options. Both are designed with a simple, engaging layout that’s easy for young children or non-readers to understand.
Each chart includes two pages:
- The main board where tokens are placed.
- A page of individual tokens (basketballs or flowers) to cut out.
To assemble your chart:
- Print both pages. Use a color printer for the best results.
- Laminate them for durability.
- Cut out the tokens.
- Apply Velcro dots—one set on the chart’s empty spaces and the other on the back of each token.
- Keep extra tokens in a small envelope or plastic bag for convenience.
Once assembled, you can use this same chart again and again! Children enjoy the tactile aspect of placing each token themselves, and it’s a great way to pair learning with fine motor skills and counting practice.
You can use one chart per day, one per week, or even one per activity—whatever fits your child’s age and attention span.
Tips for Using Printable Behavior Charts Successfully
To get the best results, it’s important to use your printable behavior chart consistently and with a clear plan. Here are some practical tips to help you get started:1. Define clear, specific behaviors
Avoid vague goals like “be good.” Instead, name exactly what you want to see—“use kind words,” “keep hands to yourself,” or “put toys away after playing.” This helps your child know exactly what earns a token.2. Start small
If your child is struggling with defiance or impulsivity, begin with a small goal—maybe earning three to five tokens for a reward. As they improve, increase the number required to promote persistence and patience.3. Pair tokens with praise
Each time your child earns a token, pair it with a positive statement such as, “Great job listening the first time!” or “You followed directions so nicely.” The verbal praise helps strengthen intrinsic motivation.4. Keep rewards meaningful
Make sure the reward matches the effort. For younger children, small rewards like bubbles, a sticker, or playtime work well. For older kids, privileges such as choosing a family activity or staying up a few minutes later can be motivating.5. Stay positive and consistent
Token systems only work when adults use them calmly and consistently. Avoid taking tokens away as punishment; instead, focus on reinforcing desired behaviors. Over time, as new habits form, you can reduce the use of tokens gradually.
Tips for Using Printable Behavior Charts Successfully
Target Behaviors You Can Work On
Printable behavior charts can be used to address a wide variety of goals. Some examples include:
- Following directions the first time
- Using good communication instead of hitting or yelling
- Staying on task for short periods
- Completing simple chores (like making the bed or feeding a pet)
- Transitioning between activities without a meltdown
- Practicing social skills such as sharing or waiting for a turn
Because these charts are so versatile, they work equally well at home, in therapy settings, or in the classroom. Teachers often use token boards to help students earn breaks or special privileges for demonstrating positive participation or on-task behavior.
Printable Behavior Charts for Toddlers and Non-Readers
Younger children or individuals who can’t yet read benefit most from visual systems like these. The flower and basketball designs are especially appealing because they are bright, simple, and intuitive.
Each completed chart provides a strong sense of accomplishment. Toddlers love to count the tokens as they go—“One, two, three…”—and they can see their progress build in a very concrete way.
If your child responds strongly to visuals, you might also consider pairing the chart with picture symbols that represent the behaviors you’re targeting (like a drawing of “cleaning up toys” or “listening”). Visual supports are essential for many children with developmental delays or sensory needs.
How to Download and Print
You will need Adobe Reader (the latest version is recommended) to download and open these printable behavior charts. If you don’t already have it, you can download it free of charge from Adobe’s website.
- To open the file in your browser, simply click on the chart you want.
- To save the file, right-click the link and choose “Save Target As” or “Save File As.”
- Select a folder on your computer, and once downloaded, double-click the file to open it.
- From there, choose “Print” and select your preferred paper size and color settings.
After printing, follow the assembly instructions above to create your own reusable token board. Lamination is highly recommended if you plan to use the chart regularly.
Final Thoughts
Printable behavior charts are more than just paper and pictures—they’re a bridge between motivation and mastery. By turning goals into small, visible steps, children begin to feel proud of their progress and learn that effort leads to success.
Token boards are especially effective for defiant children, those with ADHD, or kids with autism spectrum traits because they make expectations clear and feedback immediate. When paired with positive attention and consistency, they can transform daily struggles into opportunities for growth.
So, download your favorite chart, grab some Velcro and stickers, and start today. With a little structure—and a lot of encouragement—you’ll see just how much difference these printable behavior charts can make!
More Printable Behavior Charts or Certificates:
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