I’ve Threatened to Fire My Kids September 17, 2008
Posted by Tracy Gullett in Earning, Responsibility.trackback
Our kids seem to have lost interest in their jobs checklists. With school in session and other activities going on, the check marks have been getting recorded less and less frequently. G has her Nintendo DS with a little bit of money left and no big spending goals on the horizon, so her motivation has taken a downturn. Suddenly, laundry is too hard or too inconvenient to do, the dishwasher can stay filled, and the cat is apparently expected to fend for himself most days (poor little guy).
M has also slacked off even more than usual lately. The week before last, she earned a dismal $1.25 by completing 5 of her 21 tasks. Last week, I believe there were 6 check marks. Neither of the girls has been paid for last week, however, because I was out of town over the weekend, and no one has asked for their money. We’ll see how long it takes for them to realize they’re missing their money.
After seeing that both checklists for this week are still blank, I told the girls last night that they would be fired from their jobs and lose their source of income if their performance did not improve. The threat had no impact, though. As we left for school this morning, I discovered that poor little Speedy Cat has been left to fend for himself once again. 
Sadly, I can completely relate. I never thought to “fire” him from his chores though. Will you interview them for future chores? I am intrigued…can’t wait to hear what happens.
So far, it’s just a threat. If I do actually fire them, then I would probably accept proposals from them for new jobs after a few weeks. Savings goals are great motivators. Unfortunately, the long-term “car” goal seems to be too far off to spur our kids’ motivation.
I’m not there yet but I dread the day when I have to force my kids to take on responsibility. I gave my mom so much crap growing up because she was so “hard” on me but now that I’ve turned out to be an independent adult, I can see why she pushed so hard to get me here and can appreciate it. You better believe my kids will be doing chores when they’re old enough. Keep on them!