The Luana Method
A simple framework for building habits that stick. Use it your way. We're here to help when you want it.
You know your family best
The Luana Method isn't a rigid system you have to follow perfectly. It's a set of ideas that work. Use what fits, skip what doesn't.
Every family is different. Some kids need more structure, others less. Some respond to stars, others don't care about rewards at all. You're the expert on your kids. We just give you tools and suggestions.
The basics: Stars and Keys
Luana has two optional reward systems. Use both, use one, or use neither. Whatever works for your family.
Stars
Daily motivation. Kids earn stars for completing tasks and spend them on treats or privileges you define.
Great for getting started and building momentum.
Keys
Trust milestones. When a habit truly sticks, your child earns a Key that unlocks a permanent privilege.
For when you're ready to phase out daily rewards.
The idea behind “graduation”
Most reward apps keep kids earning stars forever. That can work, but some parents notice it starts to feel... transactional. Like their kid only does things for the reward.
Habit Graduation is our answer: when a habit truly sticks, you can “graduate” it. The stars stop, and your child earns something bigger: a Key that unlocks a real privilege.
Think of it like training wheels. Stars help get things started. Eventually, you don't need them anymore.
When is a habit actually formed?
Research suggests habits form after about 66 days of consistent practice, but “consistent” means around 90% completion, not perfection.
For most kids, that means 3 to 6 months (or longer) for a habit to really stick. Some habits click faster. Some take a full year. That's normal.
You decide when to graduate
Luana can track completion rates, but you know when your kid has truly internalized a habit. The real test: are you still nagging? If not, it might be time to graduate.
What makes a good Key reward?
Keys work best when they unlock autonomy and trust: things you'd eventually give your child anyway as they mature. The reward is earlier access, earned by proving they're ready.
Ideas that work well:
- • Later bedtime or curfew
- • More screen time
- • Stay home alone
- • Walk or bike somewhere independently
- • Less supervision
- • More say in family decisions
Ideas that fit Stars better:
- • Toys or purchases
- • One-time treats
- • Special outings
- • Extra dessert
Nothing wrong with these. They're just better as Star rewards.
A simple test: “Would I eventually give them this as they mature?” If yes, it's a great Key reward.
Suggestions, not rules
Research suggests some things work better without external rewards, like schoolwork, basic manners, and kindness. Rewarding these can sometimes backfire.
But you know your family. If rewarding homework helps your kid get through a tough patch, do it. These are guidelines, not laws.
Things we'd gently suggest keeping off the star chart:
- • Schoolwork (can reduce intrinsic motivation over time)
- • Basic manners (better as a family expectation)
- • Being kind to siblings (can make kindness feel transactional)
- • Eating meals (natural bodily need)
Again, your call. We'll never block you from setting things up your way.
You're not on your own
We're building an AI assistant called the Luana Guide to help you along the way. It can:
- •Suggest age-appropriate routines and rewards
- •Give you scripts for explaining things to your kids
- •Reassure you when things feel hard (week 3-4 is tough for everyone)
- •Help you decide when a habit might be ready to graduate
Think of it as a knowledgeable friend who's read all the research. Available when you want advice, invisible when you don't.
What to expect
The honeymoon. Kids are usually excited about something new.
The dip. Novelty wears off. This is normal. Keep going.
Building momentum. You'll start to notice less nagging.
Habits forming. Some might be ready to graduate.
Every kid is different. Some habits stick in 6 weeks, others take 6 months. That's okay. Progress isn't always linear.
Ready to get started?
Start simple. Add a few routines. See what works. You can always adjust as you go.
No credit card required. 14 days free.