Youngest Daughter has a problem with turning off lights. I've asked politely, I've asked not so politely, and yet each morning I wake up and find that she's gone to school and left the light and fan on in her room.
Two days ago I told her that I had no problem with her leaving those things on any more because I was now going to deduct $25 from her monthly allowance to pay her part of the electricity bill.
Everything has been turned off since that conversation...coincidence? :)
Posted by bbarton at September 21, 2006 11:14 AMGreat idea...can I copy? Oddly enough, A (younger) has mastered the turning it off concept, but E enjoys a well lit path wherever she goes.
Posted by: Alison on September 21, 2006 01:55 PMChosen - Well, the girls get Social Security from their mom so they have an above average allowance. I wish I had their money too! ;-)
Alison - Copy away! Must be a princess thing with the lights.
Posted by: Bob on September 21, 2006 02:24 PMThis strategy really, really does work with kids this age. I had to threaten a $100 fine for unfastened seatbelts, after my 15 year old nearly landed in the front seat with me after a quick tap of the brakes! I was beserk this needed so much reinforcement given he has spent his entire life buckled up. With his drivers license a looming reality, I couldn't take a chance he would be forgetful. So far, no fines levied, but lots of discussion about whether I would really follow through. Just try me...
Posted by: Christine on September 21, 2006 07:27 PMChristine - Good for you! That's one thing that you don't even want them to think twice about doing...using a seatbelt!
Posted by: Bob on September 22, 2006 01:00 AMMan! I got a $2 allowance.
Posted by: kari on September 22, 2006 11:12 AMKari - I never got an allowance and if I wanted anything extra as in school clothes, money for a yearbook, or my cap and gown, I needed to pay for it myself. My kids are WICKED spoiled. LOL
Posted by: Bob on September 22, 2006 11:15 AM
Whoa! Deduct $25 from the allowance? Can I move into your house and get an allowance, too? My allowance at her age was 50 cents a week and I had to work my tail off to get that AND turn off the lights and fans!
Posted by: Chosen on September 21, 2006 12:33 PM