Vintage Time Card Holder to Chore Chart DIY

 

I've had the idea to use Polaroids to help Sebastian with his chores since before Ruby was born but couldn't figure out a way to display them that I was excited about. It wasn't until I spotted this vintage time card holder that it came together.

There were plenty of slots so I decided to include Ruby's responsibilities and get her used to the idea of daily duties.

My Instax Wide photos fit perfectly into the slots so all I had to do was decide how to photograph their chores and make sure the photos turned out. I did end up with a few duds but wanted to get it right.

I figured out the measurements needed to keep the photos above the slot edges and cut card stock to fit. I made little name cards and 'Done' cards to keep things spaced out and organized.

Then I stuck the photos to the cards with tape I had on hand. I'm planning on using washi tape to secure the bottom of the photos to the cards or possibly laminating them so they don't get pulled off or easily ripped.

 
I wrote down each chore to help with word recognition and read them to Sebastian so he'd know what each photo represented. His included feeding the dog, getting dressed, putting his dirty clothes in the hamper, brushing his teeth, putting his toys away, and making his bed.

Ruby's are pretty basic for obvious reasons. They only include getting dressed, reading books, and playing.

I'm going to hang it on the wall in the hallway this week for easy access. I've explained things to both kids and Sebastian has been eager to finish his duties all week! Ruby just likes to move pictures around. I'm going to have to keep an eye on her.

Sebastian asked me what happened once he did all of his chores and I decided we'd use star stickers to reward him for every day he gets them all taken care of and once he gets seven stars he gets his allowance. The allowance is then split up into money to save, spend, and give away as explained in this post here.

I realize this project will be hard to replicate unless you find your own vintage card slot holder but I was thinking maybe you could use one of those vintage bill holders that are much easier to find at thrift stores and flea markets or maybe one of these. The point is to think outside the box on how to make things work for you. Keep your eyes peeled for how things can function outside of their original purpose. It makes things more interesting!

What would you have used a vintage time card holder for?

xoxo,

Rachel