This blog is my observations, lessons, joys and challenges that result from being a mommy. These are my opinions only.
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Sunday, March 17, 2013
The chore chart
For the past several months, the princess has been hinting that she wants an allowance. I guess this is a right of passage for all kids. I remember receiving an allowance in 6th grade. Those two dollars a week gave me such a feeling of wealth and independence. But, how much does today's child receive? I felt $5 a week was good, but hubby wanted $10. I decided to make a chore chart for her that will enable her to decide. $5 will be easily earned,$10 will require extra thought and effort. She will be paid for what she does. Every day, she can receive a check for basic things: making her bed, picking up after herself, reading, practicing her guitar, completing her homework, and respectful behavior. If she gets 7 checks in a week, she will earn $5. Every check she loses will deduct $1 from her possible $5. She can also earn stickers for going above and beyond her expectations. All day, I was cross examined about if she was getting a check mark and how could she get a sticker. There was no concrete answer for stickers. Sometimes we will ask her for help with things, other times she can step in when she sees a need. For example, tonight little man had a meltdown in bed. I was oblivious on the treadmill. By the time hubby got me, little guy had calmed down and sounded fine. When I got to his room, she was sitting next to his toddler bed, holding his hand and reading him a story. Once I had managed to cherish the moment for a second, I took her place reading and settling him down. I thanked her for helping, and waited to be asked if she would get a sticker for it. Happily, the quetion never came which made the gesture and kindness all the more heartwarming. That definitely earned a sticker! I'm curious to see what this chart will become. Will it become a reinforcement for good behavior, or will it be forgotten in a month or two? Let me know what you think. Should kids have to earn their allowance? How much should a child get in 2013?
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I tried the chore chart, stickers, and allowance.....it lasted for about a week until my "princess" grew tired of the whole process.
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