A child is more likely to complete a chore when the instruction answers three questions:

1. What should I do?
2. When should I do it?
3. How do I know it is finished?

The chore should be clear before the reminder arrives.

Use an Action in the Name

Start the chore name with a verb.

Clear:

• Put shoes on the shelf
• Feed the dog
• Pack the backpack
• Wipe the bathroom sink
• Take trash to the outside bin

Less clear:

• Shoes
• Dog
• Backpack
• Bathroom
• Trash

An action tells the child what to begin.

Name the Finish Line

“Clean” can mean different things to different people.

Instead of:

Clean your room.

Try:

Put clothes in the hamper and clear the floor.

Instead of:

Help in the kitchen.

Try:

Put clean forks and spoons in the drawer.

The child should be able to look at the result and know whether the chore is done.

Keep One Chore Focused

A chore becomes hard to understand when it includes several unrelated tasks.

Too broad:

Clean bedroom, take a shower, pack school bag, and feed the dog.

Better:

• Put clothes in hamper
• Take shower
• Pack school bag
• Feed dog

Separate chores can have different times, reminders, and S’mores values.

Use Instructions for Helpful Detail

Instructions may explain:

• Where an item belongs
• Which tool to use
• What not to do
• Who to ask for help
• The quality expected

Example:

Chore: Wipe bathroom sink
Instruction: Use the blue cloth. Wipe the sink and faucet. Put the cloth in the laundry basket.

Keep instructions short enough to read during the task.

Use a S’mart List for Steps

A Premium S’mart List is useful when one responsibility has several connected steps.

Example:

Pack for soccer

• Add jersey
• Add shoes
• Add water bottle
• Add shin guards
• Put bag by the door

Use separate chores instead when steps happen at different times.

Match the Reading Level

For younger readers:

• Use fewer words
• Use common words
• Use one action per line
• Read the chore together
• Add a visual example when helpful

For older children:

• Explain the result
• Give more ownership over method
• Avoid over-explaining familiar work

Explain New Chores in Person

The app should support the family conversation, not replace it.

For a new chore:

1. Show the child.
2. Do it together.
3. Point out the finish line.
4. Let the child try.
5. Add the final wording to S’moresUp.

A written instruction is not the same as teaching.

Keep the Due Time Separate from the Instruction

The chore name explains the work.

The schedule and due time explain when.

Instead of:

At 7:15 every weekday, remember to put your homework folder and water bottle in your backpack before Mom leaves.

Use:

Chore: Pack school backpack
Due: 7:15 AM
S’mart List: Folder, water bottle, lunchbox

This is easier to scan.

Use Positive, Neutral Language

Use:

Put art supplies in the drawer.

Avoid:

Stop leaving your mess everywhere.

The chore should describe the responsibility, not criticize the child.

Review Rejected Chores

If a chore is often rejected, ask:

• Was the finish line clear?
• Did the child see all steps?
• Did the parent expect something not written?
• Does the child need a demonstration?
• Should the chore be split?

Approval should use the same standard the child received before completing the work.

Family Example

Before:

Clean kitchen after dinner.

After:

Chore: Clear your dinner place
Instructions:

• Put plate and cup in sink
• Put napkin in trash
• Push chair in

The new wording gives one child a clear part of the kitchen routine.

Common Questions

How long should a chore name be?

Short enough to scan quickly.

Should every chore have instructions?

No. Use them when the name is not enough.

When should I use a S’mart List?

When one chore has several connected steps.

Can a photo explain the finish line?

It can help, but clear words are still useful.

Try This First

Find one chore the family often argues about.

Rewrite it with an action and a visible finish line.

Related Articles

• Add Clear Instructions to a Chore
• How S’mart Lists Help Explain Multi-Step Chores
• How to Choose Age-Appropriate Chores
• How to Handle Missed or Late Chores