Sometimes kids miss a task because they are not trying. But many times, they miss it because the task is not clear enough.

S’moresUp lets you add details to a chore so your child knows what “done” means. You can add notes, checklists, images, videos, photo proof, and parent approval.

Clear instructions reduce reminders, confusion, and arguments.

Why clear instructions matter

A task like “Clean your room” can mean different things to different people.

To a parent, it may mean:

• Clothes in hamper.
• Toys in bins.
• Books on shelf.
• Trash in trash can.
• Bed made.

To a child, it may mean:

• Move things off the floor.

S’moresUp helps you turn a broad task into clear steps.

What you can add to a chore

Depending on your app version and plan, a chore can include:

• A written note.
• A checklist or smart list.
• A picture.
• A video.
• A due time.
• A reminder.
• Photo proof.
• Approval required.
• S’mores points.
• Bonus chore setting.

Use only what the task needs. A simple task may only need a title. A more complex task may need a checklist or proof.

Add a note

Use a note when the task needs a short explanation.

Examples:

Task: Put away laundry
Note: Shirts go in the top drawer. Pajamas go in the bottom drawer.

Task: Feed the dog
Note: One scoop of dry food and fresh water.

Task: Clear the table
Note: Plates go by the sink. Trash goes in the trash can. Wipe the table after.

Notes work well when the task has one or two important details.

Add a checklist

Use a checklist when the task has multiple steps.

Example:

Task: Clean bedroom

Checklist:

• Put clothes in hamper.
• Put books on shelf.
• Put toys in bin.
• Throw away trash.
• Make bed.

A checklist helps kids see progress. It also helps parents avoid repeating the same instructions.

Add an image

Use an image when a child needs to see what “done” looks like.

Examples:

• A photo of a clean desk.
• A photo of where shoes should go.
• A photo of a packed backpack.
• A photo of how the bed should look.
• A photo of how pet supplies should be arranged.

Images are especially helpful for younger kids and visual learners.

Add a video

Use a video when the task is easier to show than explain.

Examples:

• How to fold towels.
• How to wipe a counter.
• How to sort laundry.
• How to clean a fish tank with help.
• How to load the dishwasher.

Keep videos short. A 20-second video can be more useful than a long explanation.

Use photo proof

Photo proof asks the child to upload a photo when the task is complete.

Use photo proof when:

• The task is often marked done too early.
• You are not in the same room.
• The task needs to meet a clear standard.
• You want the child to take pride in the finished result.

Good tasks for photo proof:

• Clean room.
• Clean desk.
• Put away laundry.
• Feed pet.
• Empty dishwasher.
• Clean bathroom counter.

Use photo proof carefully. Not every task needs it.

Use parent approval

Approval means a task is not fully complete until a parent reviews it.

Use approval when:

• The task needs quality control.
• S’mores should not be awarded until reviewed.
• The child is learning a new skill.
• The task has safety or cleanliness expectations.

Good tasks for approval:

• Clean bathroom.
• Load dishwasher.
• Fold laundry.
• Clean pet area.
• Complete homework setup.
• Help with meal prep.

Approval helps create accountability without constant micromanaging.

Use notes, proof, and approval together

For important tasks, you can combine tools.

Example:

Task: Clean bathroom sink
Note: Wipe the counter, sink, and mirror. Put toothbrush items back in the cup.
Checklist: Counter, sink, mirror, items put away.
Photo proof: Upload photo of the sink area.
Approval: Parent reviews before S’mores are awarded.

This is helpful for bigger tasks, but too much for simple chores.

How to make instructions kid-friendly

Use simple words.

Instead of:

“Organize your room.”

Try:

“Put clothes in hamper and books on shelf.”

Instead of:

“Help with dinner cleanup.”

Try:

“Clear your plate, put cup by sink, and wipe your spot.”

Instead of:

“Take care of the dog.”

Try:

“Fill food bowl, change water, and check that the gate is closed.”

Common questions

Should every chore have a checklist?

No. Use checklists for tasks with multiple steps. Keep simple chores simple.

When should I use photo proof?

Use it for tasks where seeing the finished result helps. Avoid using it for every small task.

What is the difference between photo proof and approval?

Photo proof lets the child show the task was done. Approval lets the parent decide whether it meets the expectation.

What if my child still does not complete the task correctly?

Make the task smaller. Add a better note, image, or checklist. You may also need to show the task once in person.

Best first action

Pick one task your child often misunderstands. Add a checklist that explains what “done” means.

Related pages

• /smoresup/set-reminders
• /smoresup/chore-types
• /smoresup/weekly-view