Money doesn't grow on trees...

So, I think my children think that money grows on trees! Well, my husband and I have been explaining that it does NOT grow on trees and we do not have a never ending supply! We are trying harder to stick to a budget and teach the kids the value of the dollar so they can be successful adults in a economically challenged world. In addition to this lesson, we have also been working on the never ending task of learning to do chores and balance them into their daily lives. We want them to have successful marriages and pull their weight in helping with meals, chores, and all the other stuff that comes in a marriage. So we combined the two ideas and for the past month have tried out this idea. For a week at a time, one child is in charge of the household duties. They can do the jobs  by themselves or hire them out to their siblings. At the end of the week they earn $20.00. They get to keep that amount or hand out the amounts of what they have hired out. Each of our children has done this differently on their job week, but I am happy with the success of how this has been going!! Believe me when I say we have tried everything! This seems to work out the best! In addition to job week, each child has to do a few daily jobs (always) including homework, music practice, and room.

One of the jobs for the week is to make one breakfast. My 11 year old did a great job making pancakes for breakfast. This took some planning and time to have breakfast ready by 7:20 am before school.