S’moresUp gives you different chore types so every task does not have to work the same way.

Some chores belong to one person. Some should rotate. Some need teamwork. Some are better as a fun challenge. Some are extra tasks that kids can do for bonus S’mores.

Choosing the right chore type can reduce arguments and make expectations clearer.

Individual chores

Use an Individual chore when one person owns the task.

Good examples:

• Make your bed.
• Pack your backpack.
• Feed your fish.
• Put your clothes in the hamper.
• Complete homework check-in.

Individual chores work well for daily routines and age-based responsibilities.

When to use it

Use Individual when:

• The task clearly belongs to one child.
• You want that child to build a habit.
• The task does not need to be shared.
• You want simple tracking.

As Needed chores

Use an As Needed chore when the task does not have a fixed owner or time.

Good examples:

• Wipe kitchen counter.
• Help unload groceries.
• Pick up living room items.
• Water a plant that looks dry.
• Help with a quick family reset.

As Needed chores are helpful for flexible families. They let someone step in when they notice a need.

When to use it

Use As Needed when:

• Anyone can do the task.
• The task is not tied to a strict schedule.
• You want kids to notice and help.
• You want to encourage initiative.

Rotate chores

Use Rotate when a chore should move between family members.

Good examples:

• Take out trash.
• Empty dishwasher.
• Feed the dog.
• Clean the litter box.
• Set the table.
• Clear the table.

Rotate helps keep shared chores fair. Instead of one person always doing the same task, the app can help move the responsibility to the next person.

When to use it

Use Rotate when:

• More than one person can do the task.
• You want everyone to take turns.
• The task causes “Why me?” arguments.
• You want the system to feel fair.

Example

If three kids rotate “Take out trash” once a week, Kid 1 does it this week, Kid 2 does it next week, and Kid 3 does it the week after.

Collaborate chores

Use Collaborate when more than one person needs to work together.

Good examples:

• Clean the garage.
• Prepare for guests.
• Decorate for a holiday.
• Fold and put away family laundry.
• Do a weekend family reset.
• Clean the backyard.

Collaborate chores help families work as a team. Everyone can see that the task is shared, not dropped on one person.

When to use it

Use Collaborate when:

• The task is too big for one person.
• The task helps the whole family.
• You want to build teamwork.
• The task can be broken into smaller roles.

Tip

Add a note or checklist so each person knows their part.

Example:

• Graham: Put toys in bins.
• Marsh: Fold blankets.
• Mello: Wipe table.
• Parent: Vacuum.

Compete chores

Use Compete when a task can become a friendly challenge.

Good examples:

• Who can tidy their room first?
• Who can sort laundry correctly?
• Who can collect the most clutter from shared spaces?
• Who can finish a 15-minute cleanup?

Compete can make chores more fun, especially for kids who enjoy games or friendly rivalry.

When to use it

Use Compete when:

• The task is safe to do quickly.
• The competition will stay friendly.
• Kids are motivated by challenges.
• You want to make a boring task feel playful.

Tip

Keep Compete light. The goal is motivation, not stress.

Bonus chores

Use Bonus chores for extra tasks that go beyond the regular routine.

Good examples:

• Organize a drawer.
• Help wash the car.
• Sweep the porch.
• Help a sibling.
• Clean out the backpack.
• Help prepare for a family event.

Bonus chores are helpful when kids want to earn extra S’mores or when the family needs extra help.

When to use it

Use Bonus when:

• The task is optional.
• The task is extra, not expected every day.
• You want to reward initiative.
• You want to create a list kids can choose from.

How to choose the right chore type

Use this simple guide:

Need	Best chore type
One child owns it	Individual
Anyone can do it	As Needed
Everyone should take turns	Rotate
The family needs teamwork	Collaborate
You want a fun challenge	Compete
The task is extra	Bonus

Common mistakes

Making everything Individual

This can make shared work feel unfair. Use Rotate or Collaborate for shared household tasks.

Making everything a competition

Compete is fun in small doses. Too much competition can create conflict.

Using Collaborate without clear roles

If everyone owns a task, sometimes no one owns it. Add notes or a checklist.

Forgetting Bonus chores

Bonus chores are a great way to encourage kids who want to earn more without adding pressure to everyone.

Common questions

Are Rotate, Collaborate, and Compete available to all families?

Some advanced chore types may depend on the family’s plan or app version. If you do not see an option, check your plan or settings.

Can a chore have S’mores and still be Rotate or Collaborate?

Yes. S’mores can help reward shared or rotating chores.

Can I change the chore type later?

In most cases, you can edit the chore. If the task has become confusing, it may be easier to create a new version with the right type.

Best first action

Pick one chore that causes fairness arguments and change it to Rotate.

Related pages

• /smoresup/rewards-and-smores
• /smoresup/clear-instructions
• /smoresup/weekly-view