The “going rate” is a dollar a year for each year of life. A 10-year old gets $10. Out of that cash, your child should save, spend and donate or invest...whatever is decided. Make a written agreement. Their memory is short, especially when they feel absolutely gotta have “it”.
The next question is “What do they have to do to earn it?” Instead of chores, focus on “family behaviors” such as respect or cooperation. Be specific. For example, respect means speaking kindly. Cooperation means saying, “Yes, Mom!” when you ask them to take out the trash for the second time that day.
At the end of the week, take a few moments and ask them how much of their allowance they think they’ve earned. You decide what you think they’ve earned. Find the middle ground. Suggest ways for them to earn more next week.
If they want to earn more, have a "job board" or notebook with projects you'd like help with or tasks they can do independently such as "pull everything out of your closet. Decide what you want to keep and want you want to donate or give to your little brother". Outline the steps they're to follow. Make sure you post the price you're willing to pay or let them know it's a "Let's Make a Deal" situation. You're teaching them "how to get life done" for a bit of cash and it'll help you immensely! They'll be more confident and competent adults with these "life lessons".
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TTFN, Claudia
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