Debbie is giving away two ebook copies of 101 Quick Tips Surviving the Kids, co-written with Mary Lambie. To enter the contest this week, simply email debbie at contest@successis.co.nz
Several weeks ago you might have read my column 'The world won't end if you don't cook them dinner'. If you haven't here it is.
There was so many comments, I thought in the name of freeing up more time for families with younger children, I'd offer two pieces of advice from when our six (remember we had one, then twins, then triplets) were young.
The first is when the children are just beginning to help out around the home, please don't make the mistake we (and many families) did by tying allowances to household chores. All you'll get when you ask them to do something additional is, 'How much will I get paid for doing this?', 'It's not my job'.
I suggest to make weekly allowances independent of chores. Have most jobs around the house categorised as family duties (things your family members do to contribute to running the house like setting the table, washing up, etc.). Special, larger jobs could involve a payment or special treat.