Responsibility and reward: A family guide

Tips for setting up your family’s reward system

While there are different approaches to chores and rewards, when you set up a clear way for children to earn for their contributions, it can often spark their interest, making them more inclined to help out.

This kind of setup can also assist with daily tasks and gently show them the connection between effort and getting a reward, along with exploring opportunities to earn. If you're thinking about how to implement this in your household, here are some points to consider:

• Set achievable goals

Choose tasks and associated rewards that align with the child’s age and capabilities. Start with straightforward jobs for younger children, such as putting away toys, and progress to more complex responsibilities, such as feeding a pet, as they grow older.

• Communicate the value of each task

When children understand that their individual contributions are vital to achieving a shared family dream, they feel valued and included. This clear communication about the importance of their role can create a sense of responsibility and ownership, while the acknowledgment of collective effort can strengthen family relationships.  

• Structure tasks with milestones

Divide tasks into daily, weekly and monthly milestones, with varying reward scales. This approach may help maintain short-term motivation while illustrating the long-term value of consistent (and accumulated) effort.

• Choose reward types

Rewards for household contributions can take various forms. Beyond money, families might consider options such as extra screen time, choosing a special family activity, a small treat or extended play time.

Monetary rewards for chores can offer an opportunity to introduce financial management concepts early on, and a bank account designed for beginners can help teach kids important money lessons. See why a sum(1) Banking Account is a great way to set your child up on their financial journey.

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• Encouraging initiative

Even with a clear list, extra tasks that aren't on it will sometimes pop up. Encouraging individuals to identify and complete additional chores independently can foster a habit of initiative and provide further opportunities for rewards.

• Visualising progress

A visual (and physical) aid, such as a chore/responsibility chart, sticker board or simple tracking sheet, can serve as a clear and encouraging tool. By providing a tangible way to mark off completed tasks or track accumulated efforts, children can see their progress building towards a goal.

This visible representation often makes the process feel more concrete, which can be highly motivating and help sustain engagement as they watch their accomplishments grow over time.

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