Have your kids ever tried to make you feel like you’re the meanest mom out there? Mine have, and I am okay with that.
I truly believe what I am doing is helping them, and I know as parents that’s what we all strive to do. Do I make mistakes? Lots! And are they always happy with me? Of course not!
About a year ago my daughter Molly, who was nine at the time, and my son Gavin, who was seven, tried to convince me they were the only ones in their entire grade (not just class) who didn’t have iPod Touches. I knew that was a gross exaggeration, but they were trying to make their case as strong as possible. In general I want them to earn their possessions, and in this case I was also trying to hold out as long as possible from bringing more “screens” into their lives. It certainly would have been a lot easier to just buy the iPod Touches, but I didn’t…and that’s why I was such a mean mom, at least that day (I have plenty of other stories for the other days). Molly has one now; she’s ten now and had the opportunity to earn hers. Gavin is still not allowed to have one; I would never see the kid’s face if he did.
Earning their possessions is something I try to consistently teach. Since I have Baby Be Hip, the kids have many opportunities to help around the shop and earn a few dollars. In the beginning, they begrudgingly started to work at the shop by making boxes, cutting ribbons, and sweeping the floor. They certainly would have preferred to watch TV or play outside when they came to work with me, but now they actually look forward to working. They have even asked me, “Mom, can we go to the shop? I want to work.” They are now proud of themselves, and what was once a hard job they have now mastered. Check out those smiling faces.
When they are saving up for a new toy or game, they are also more likely to do their chores…which means they will get their allowance. In our house, they only get their allowance each week if they have completed their chores each and every day. Gosh, I am sounding really mean here, aren’t I? Just cruel. I think my kids actually have a pretty good life, but if you ask them they may or may not agree. Depends on the day.
It’s not always easy, and sometimes I would rather give in. However I’m really trying to teach my kids the value of a dollar and how to have a great work ethic. I believe it will serve them better when they are out on their own. And these days, though they’ll still say I’m mean, they are not only learning to be productive but learning to like it as well.
Are there any other mean moms (or dads) out there? Please tell me I am not alone!
