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S’mores are the points kids earn for completing tasks in S’moresUp.
They help kids see that their effort matters. Families can use S’mores for rewards, savings goals, or even allowance if they choose.
You do not need a big reward system to get started.
One reward is enough.
Your First Reward
If you only have a few minutes today, do these three things:
- Choose one reward your child will enjoy.
- Decide how many S’mores it should cost.
- Connect it to a few everyday tasks.
That’s enough to get started.
What Are S’mores?
S’mores are points that kids earn when they complete tasks.
For example:
- Feed the pet — 5 S’mores
- Make the bed — 5 S’mores
- Put away laundry — 10 S’mores
- Clean the bathroom sink — 15 S’mores
- Help clean the house — 25 S’mores
You can change the points to fit your family.
What Is a Reward?
A reward is something your child can earn with S’mores.
Rewards can be simple.
Some ideas are:
- Extra screen time
- Pick the family movie
- A small treat
- Family game night
- Pizza night
- Save for a toy or book
- Save for a bigger family activity
The goal is not to reward every little thing.
The goal is to help kids connect effort with progress.
Set Up Your First Reward
Start with one reward.
You can always add more later.
Step 1: Choose a Reward
Pick something your child will actually enjoy.
Good first rewards include:
- 30 minutes of extra screen time
- Choose the family movie
- Pick dessert
- Stay up 15 minutes later on Friday
- Family game night
- Save for a new toy, book, or art supplies
Step 2: Choose the S’mores Value
Make the first reward easy to reach.
For example:
- 50 S’mores = Family game
- 100 S’mores = Extra screen time
- 250 S’mores = Small toy
- 500 S’mores = Family outing
You can change these later.
Step 3: Explain It
Keep it simple.
Try saying:
“When you finish your tasks, you earn S’mores. You can save them for rewards. Let’s start with one reward and see how it goes.”
Step 4: Connect Tasks to S’mores
Not every task needs points.
Start with a few tasks where extra motivation helps.
For example:
- Morning routine
- Feeding the pet
- Homework
- Cleaning shared spaces
- Daily habits
Step 5: Celebrate the First Reward
When your child earns their first reward, celebrate it.
That moment helps them connect:
- Effort
- Patience
- Progress
Choosing S’mores Values
There is no perfect number.
Think about five things.
1. Effort
Harder tasks can earn more S’mores.
Example: Cleaning the garage should earn more than putting shoes away.
2. Time
Longer tasks can earn more points.
Example: Folding laundry may earn more than putting a cup in the sink.
3. Age
Choose points that match your child’s age.
A younger child may earn points for packing a backpack.
A teen may earn points for planning a simple meal.
4. Consistency
Daily habits usually earn fewer points.
That is okay.
Small points help build strong routines.
5. Family Impact
Tasks that help everyone can earn more.
Examples:
- Helping clean a shared room
- Preparing for guests
Using S’mores for Goals
Some kids like saving instead of spending right away.
Goals might include:
- Art supplies
- A toy
- A family outing
- Movie night
- A special activity
Saving teaches:
- Patience
- Planning
- Decision making
- Teamwork
Using S’mores for Allowance
Some families connect S’mores to money.
Others use them only for rewards.
Both approaches work.
If you connect S’mores to allowance:
- Pick a conversion rate.
- Explain it clearly.
- Review it from time to time.
For example:
100 S’mores = $1
Or simply:
“In our family, S’mores are used for rewards, not money.”
Tips for Success
Start small
One reward is enough.
Pick rewards your child wants
The best rewards are exciting for your child.
Use family rewards too
Movie nights and pizza nights help everyone celebrate together.
Make changes when needed
If something is not working, adjust it.
Celebrate progress
Recognition matters just as much as the reward.
Common Questions
Should every chore earn S’mores?
No.
Some chores are simply part of being in a family.
Others earn S’mores because they take extra effort or help build a habit.
What if my child only does chores for points?
Use S’mores as a teaching tool.
Talk about responsibility, teamwork, and helping the family.
Over time, you can reduce points for some tasks.
Can rewards be something other than money?
Yes.
Many families use:
- Extra screen time
- Family activities
- Special privileges
- One-on-one time
Can I change the point values later?
Yes.
Your reward system should grow with your family.
Change it whenever it stops feeling motivating.
Best First Action
Open S’moresUp, go to the Family tab, and tap Rewards.
Create one reward your child will be excited to earn.
Then connect it to a few tasks your child already knows.
That’s enough to get started.