50 Incentives to Give to Students

Rewarding students can significantly boost their motivation and engagement in the classroom. Incentives provide positive reinforcement, encouraging students to put forth their best effort.

From extra recess time to special privileges, there are numerous creative ways to recognize and celebrate student achievements.

Here are 50 incentive ideas that can help create a positive and rewarding classroom environment.

Ideas for Incentives to Give to Students

1. Extra Recess Time

Giving students extra recess time as a reward can motivate them to stay focused during class. It provides a break from academic tasks and allows for physical activity, which is essential for their development. This incentive can help improve behavior and attention when students return to their studies.

2. Homework Pass

A homework pass allows a student to skip an assignment without penalty. This reward can reduce stress and provide a break, encouraging students to maintain their effort in other assignments. It also gives them a sense of autonomy and control over their workload.

3. Small Toy or Trinket

Small toys or trinkets, such as erasers, keychains, or action figures, can be a fun and tangible reward for students. These items can serve as a positive reminder of their achievements and efforts. Collectible items can also foster a sense of pride and accomplishment.

4. Certificate of Achievement

A certificate of achievement recognizes a student’s hard work and success. Displaying the certificate can boost a student’s self-esteem and encourage continued effort. It also provides a formal acknowledgment of their accomplishments, which they can share with family.

5. Classroom Job of Their Choice

Letting students choose a classroom job, like being the line leader or passing out supplies, can make them feel important and responsible. This incentive fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their classroom community. It also helps develop leadership and organizational skills.

6. Free Reading Time

Free reading time allows students to pick a book and enjoy uninterrupted reading. This incentive promotes a love for reading and can improve literacy skills. It also gives students a chance to relax and immerse themselves in a story they enjoy.

7. Lunch with the Teacher

Having lunch with the teacher can be a special treat for students. It provides an opportunity to build a positive relationship outside of the regular classroom setting. This incentive can make students feel valued and appreciated by their teacher.

8. Special Seat in the Classroom

A special seat, such as a comfy chair or a spot at the teacher’s desk, can be a coveted reward. It can make a student feel special and recognized for their efforts. This change in routine can also re-energize and motivate them.

9. Extra Computer Time

Extra computer time can be a highly motivating reward for students, especially if it involves educational games or activities. This incentive allows students to practice digital literacy skills while having fun. It can also serve as a productive break from traditional learning methods.

10. Positive Call or Note Home

A positive call or note home informs parents or guardians of their child’s good behavior or achievements. This recognition can boost a student’s self-esteem and encourage continued positive behavior. It also strengthens the home-school connection, involving parents in their child’s education.

11. Stickers

Stickers are a simple yet effective reward that students love. They can be used to decorate notebooks or personal items, serving as a visual reminder of their accomplishments. Collecting stickers can also become a fun and motivating activity for students.

12. Pencil Toppers

Pencil toppers are fun accessories that make writing tools more exciting. They can be used as a reward for good behavior or academic achievements. These small, colorful items can motivate students to keep working hard and can brighten up their school supplies.

13. Educational Games

Offering time to play educational games can be both fun and beneficial for students. These games can reinforce learning concepts while providing an engaging and interactive experience. This incentive can make learning feel less like work and more like play.

14. Art Supplies

Providing special art supplies, like colored pencils or markers, can encourage creativity in students. This reward allows them to explore their artistic abilities and express themselves. It can also make art activities more enjoyable and rewarding.

15. Choice of Class Activity

Letting students choose a class activity, such as a game or project, can give them a sense of control and ownership. This incentive allows them to engage in activities they are passionate about. It also fosters a collaborative and inclusive classroom environment.

16. Small Snacks or Treats

Small snacks or treats, such as cookies or fruit, can be a delightful reward for students. This incentive can be used to celebrate achievements and milestones. It provides a tangible and immediate reward that can boost morale and motivation.

17. Bookmarks

Bookmarks can be a practical and appreciated reward for students who enjoy reading. They can come in various designs, making them a fun collectible item. This incentive encourages reading and helps students keep their place in their favorite books.

18. Special Privilege (Like Being Line Leader)

Granting special privileges, such as being the line leader, can make students feel recognized and important. This reward provides them with a sense of responsibility and pride. It can also help develop leadership skills and boost self-confidence.

19. Educational Magazine

Giving students an educational magazine can be both informative and entertaining. These magazines often include fun activities, interesting articles, and educational content. This reward encourages reading and learning outside of the regular curriculum.

20. Access to Special Books

Allowing students access to special books, such as new releases or popular titles, can be a great incentive. This reward promotes a love for reading and gives students something to look forward to. It can also introduce them to new genres and authors, expanding their literary horizons.

21. Extra Art Time

Providing extra art time allows students to dive deeper into their creative projects. This incentive can be particularly rewarding for those who enjoy drawing, painting, or crafting. It offers a break from academic tasks and helps develop artistic skills.

22. Music Time

Extra music time can be a fun and engaging reward for students. Whether it’s playing instruments, singing, or listening to music, this incentive allows students to explore their musical interests. It also provides a joyful and relaxing break from regular classroom activities.

23. Movie Day

A movie day can be a highly anticipated reward for students. It provides a chance to relax and enjoy a fun film together as a class. This incentive can also be tied to educational content, making it both entertaining and informative.

24. Hat Day in Class

Allowing students to wear hats in class for a day can be a fun and simple reward. This incentive adds a bit of novelty and excitement to the school day. It can also serve as a fun way to celebrate achievements and boost classroom morale.

25. Dress-Down Day

A dress-down day gives students the opportunity to wear casual clothes instead of their usual uniforms. This reward can make students feel more comfortable and relaxed. It also adds an element of fun and individuality to the school environment.

26. No Uniform Day

Similar to a dress-down day, a no uniform day allows students to express their personal style. This incentive can be particularly appealing in schools with strict dress codes. It provides a break from routine and adds a sense of excitement to the day.

27. Show-and-Tell Day

A show-and-tell day gives students the chance to share something special with their classmates. This reward can boost confidence and communication skills. It also fosters a sense of community and allows students to learn more about each other.

28. Free Time

Granting free time allows students to choose their own activities for a period. This reward provides a break from structured learning and can be very motivating. It also gives students a chance to relax and recharge.

29. Group Project Leader

Letting a student be the leader of a group project can be a valuable incentive. This role allows them to take charge and develop leadership skills. It also fosters teamwork and responsibility among classmates.

30. Lunch with a Friend

Allowing a student to have lunch with a friend as a reward can be very appealing. This incentive provides a social break and can strengthen friendships. It also gives students something to look forward to during the school day.

31. Special Lunch (Pizza Party, Ice Cream)

Organizing a special lunch, such as a pizza party or ice cream social, can be a highly motivating reward for students. This incentive creates a fun and celebratory atmosphere in the classroom. It also provides an opportunity for students to bond and enjoy a treat together.

32. Game Day in Class

A game day in class allows students to play educational or recreational games. This reward can make learning fun and interactive, encouraging teamwork and friendly competition. It also provides a break from the usual routine, keeping students engaged and excited.

33. Fun Educational Videos

Showing fun and educational videos can be a great way to reward students while still promoting learning. These videos can cover a range of topics and provide a visually engaging way to understand new concepts. This incentive can also serve as a relaxing and enjoyable break from regular lessons.

34. Special Project Time

Allocating time for special projects allows students to work on something they are passionate about. This incentive encourages creativity and independent thinking. It also gives students a sense of accomplishment as they see their project come to fruition.

35. Science Experiment Day

A science experiment day can be an exciting and educational reward for students. Hands-on experiments can spark curiosity and enhance understanding of scientific concepts. This incentive makes learning fun and memorable, encouraging a love for science.

36. Library Pass

A library pass gives students additional access to the school library. This reward encourages reading and exploration of new books and resources. It also provides a quiet and comfortable space for students to enjoy their favorite books.

37. Surprise Box (Small Toys, Erasers, etc.)

A surprise box filled with small toys, erasers, or other fun items can be a delightful reward. The element of surprise adds excitement and anticipation for students. This incentive can also serve as a positive reinforcement for good behavior and achievements.

38. Star Student Board

Featuring students on a star student board recognizes their efforts and achievements. This public acknowledgment can boost their self-esteem and motivation. It also creates a positive classroom culture where students are celebrated for their hard work.

39. Compliment from the Principal

A personal compliment from the principal can be a powerful and meaningful reward. This recognition from a higher authority can significantly boost a student’s confidence and pride. It also reinforces the value of their accomplishments within the school community.

40. Extra Credit on a Test

Offering extra credit on a test as a reward can motivate students to put in extra effort. This incentive can help improve their grades and academic performance. It also provides a tangible benefit that encourages continued hard work and study.

41. Special Theme Day (Crazy Sock Day)

A special theme day, like crazy sock day, can add a fun and creative twist to the school day. Students can express their individuality and enjoy seeing the unique socks their classmates wear. This incentive promotes a sense of community and excitement in the classroom.

42. Class Pet Helper

Allowing a student to be the class pet helper gives them the responsibility of caring for the class pet. This reward fosters a sense of responsibility and compassion. It also provides a hands-on learning experience about animal care and biology.

43. Special Bookmark

A special bookmark can be a practical and cherished reward for students who enjoy reading. Bookmarks can come in various designs, making them a fun collectible item. This incentive encourages reading and helps students keep track of their place in their favorite books.

44. Fun Worksheet or Activity

Providing a fun worksheet or activity, such as puzzles or coloring pages, can be a relaxing and enjoyable reward. This incentive can make learning more engaging and less stressful. It also provides a break from regular academic tasks while still promoting learning.

45. Extra Reading Time

Extra reading time allows students to immerse themselves in a book of their choice. This incentive promotes a love for reading and can improve literacy skills. It provides a quiet and relaxing break from other school activities.

46. Board Games

Bringing in board games for students to play can be a fun and interactive reward. Board games promote critical thinking, strategy, and social skills. This incentive provides a break from traditional learning and fosters teamwork and friendly competition.

47. Use of Special Classroom Equipment (Like a Bean Bag Chair)

Allowing a student to use special classroom equipment, like a bean bag chair, can make them feel special and comfortable. This reward can create a more relaxed and enjoyable learning environment. It also serves as a fun and novel change from their regular seating.

48. Class Field Trip

Organizing a class field trip can be an exciting and educational reward. Field trips provide hands-on learning experiences and a break from the regular classroom setting. This incentive can make learning more memorable and engaging.

49. Extra Art Supplies

Providing extra art supplies, such as special markers or craft materials, can be a great reward for creative students. This incentive encourages artistic expression and exploration. It also makes art projects more enjoyable and rewarding.

50. Recognition in a Class Newsletter or Bulletin Board

Featuring a student in the class newsletter or on a bulletin board publicly acknowledges their achievements. This recognition can boost their self-esteem and encourage continued effort. It also creates a positive classroom culture where students are celebrated for their hard wor