Online tools make dollars & sense

Q: I use the computer to keep track of my home budget and calendar. Are there any tech tools made for kids, to help them keep track of chores and allowance money?

A: We often think of the computer in terms of fun when it comes to kids, but there are great resources available to help kids learn organizational skills. Printable charts are abundant online at sites like ChoreCharts.com. You can print them for free whenever you need to – many can even be customized to include chores and jobs unique to your family.

There are also several Web-based programs you can use to help kids stay on track with homework and chores. Handipoints.com is a free online program that allows parents to create task lists for kids and grade their chores, so they can earn rewards, both on and offline. Kids can earn points for the Handiland virtual world where they can dress their Cool Cat, watch cartoons and play games. Kids can also earn points for hygiene, healthy eating and good grades.

For kids 12 years and older, PayJr.com is an innovative online system for managing chores and allowance money. Parents set up chores and allocate a pay rate for each chore. As kids complete chores, they can track their earnings. Once approved by parents, cash can then be loaded onto a Target gift card. Money can be spent at Target stores or online at Target.com.

Childzilla.com and ActiveAllowance.com are two more Web sites that offer free chore charts, allowance tracking systems, plus parent resources and teaching tools. Fun graphics and printable charts make these good family options for a wide range of ages.

Sharon Miller Cindrich is a mother of two and the author of E-Parenting: Keeping Up With Your Tech-Savvy Kids.