Over the years I’ve found that finding the right way to motivate upper elementary students sometimes feels like a never-ending game of trial and error. What excites my kiddos one day might completely fizzle the next. And while small prizes and treats have their place, they have not always been realistic when I’ve been trying to stay on budget. Because of this, I’ve learned that some of the best classroom rewards are absolutely free—and my students love them just as much (if not more).

Here are 10 of my favorite no-cost rewards that are easy to implement and pack a big motivational punch:

1. Sit in the Teacher’s Chair

 Let a student take over your desk or chair for part of the day. It’s such a simple switch, but it makes them feel like a VIP.

2. Be the Line Leader or Door Holder for the Day

 Even upper elementary kids enjoy being given a special role. Something as small as leading the line can make their day.

3. Pick the Class Brain Break

Let the reward earner choose the movement break for the day—whether it’s a silly dance, yoga video, or five minutes of freeze tag. It gives them a sense of control and helps the whole class reset.

4. Draw on the Whiteboard for 10 Minutes

Give them a chance to doodle, design, or decorate the board. Whether they’re drawing a cartoon or writing an encouraging message, students love being the “artist in residence.”

5. Bring a Stuffed Animal or Pillow to Class

 Kids love the comfort of a favorite soft item at their side. It’s a cozy and low-effort way to make learning feel a little more like home.

6. Pick the Class Read-Aloud

Offer a handful of pre-approved choices and let the student pick the book you read aloud. It makes them feel important and gives them ownership of a shared classroom moment.

7. Lunch with the Teacher (and a Friend)

There’s something special about sharing your lunch space with students, even if it’s just sandwiches and water bottles. Add a friend to the mix, and it becomes the highlight of their week.

8. Work in a Special Spot

Whether it’s a corner of the room, under a table, or a bean bag in the reading nook, working somewhere different adds a novelty that feels like a big deal.

9. Wear a Hat or Fun Socks to Class

Let students show off their silly side with a hat day, sock day, or even “wear your favorite color” day—just for them. It adds a bit of joy to the regular routine.

10. Free Choice Time

Give students 10–15 minutes to do something they love—read, draw, play a quiet game, or write a story. It’s a meaningful reward that gives them a sense of freedom and creativity.

Motivating students doesn’t have to mean buying treasure box toys or doling out candy (especially for big kids). Some of the most memorable and meaningful rewards come from a sense of recognition, choice, and fun. When students feel seen and celebrated, they’re far more likely to stay engaged and motivated.If you’re looking for easy ways to incorporate rewards like these into your classroom management plan, check out my Emoji Incentive and Reward Coupons! This resource includes 40 ready-to-print reward options that match many of the ideas above, making it simple to put your classroom reward system on autopilot.

Save These Ideas for Later

If you have found any of these ideas helpful, be sure to save this post to one of your favorite Pinterest boards so that you will be able to easily refer to them when the time is right.  Wishing you the very best school year full of many fun times with your students.