Is $25 a Week Reasonable for My 12-Year-Old Son’s Chores?

Every conversation with a 12-year-old brings new nuanced questions. My son recently asked if he could earn $25 a week for completing his chores. He emphasized that he could work for it. Here, I share my thoughts on the matter, drawing from personal experience and the wisdom of time-tested practices.

The Value of Chores

Before delving into the specifics of $25, it's crucial to understand the value of chores for my son and potentially any child. Beyond just the mundane tasks, chores teach valuable life skills and responsibilities. They are part of family life, instilling a sense of belonging and contribution. When I was young, I mowed the lawn, shoveled snow, and took out the trash, all part of being a member of the family.

Finding a Fair Balance

My son's suggestion of earning $25 a week is a reasonable starting point. However, it’s important to consider the value of the tasks involved and whether they align with his age and capabilities. Tasks such as cleaning the bathroom, dusting, vacuuming, window washing, and laundry are essential chores. If these tasks are rotated among family members, the load can be shared, reducing the burden on any one individual.

For a 12-year-old, breaking down the tasks and offering a fair allowance is a good practice. The rule of thumb is to give a weekly allowance equal to their age in dollars, such as $12 a week for a 12-year-old. This basic allowance can be supplemented with additional tasks if needed. Once they get older, additional rewards for personal needs like clothing or hygiene products can be included.

The Importance of Fairness and Realism

While $25 a week may seem like a hefty allowance, it's important to align it with the effort and the tasks involved. If he truly wants to earn $25 a week, it should be fair to the contributions he's making. Easy tasks like cleaning his room and helping with a few other chores could be a good starting point. The key is to ensure the earnings reflect the work he is doing and the value of the tasks.

Adjusting the Allowance as He Grows

As my son gets older, the allowance should reflect his growing responsibilities and capabilities. For example, starting at $12 a week for a 12-year-old, I would double the amount by the time he is 16, making it $24 a week. By 18 or 19, the amount could be tripled, reaching $36 a week if he is handling significant household chores. This progression helps him learn the value of saving and managing money more effectively.

Furthermore, involving him in household responsibilities beyond just chores can be beneficial. Encouraging him to take on more significant tasks, such as yard work or helping with maintenance projects, can further justify a higher allowance. This will also teach him the skills needed for future employment and financial independence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while $25 a week might be reasonable, it’s important to balance it with the tasks and effort involved. A well-thought-out allowance system, reflecting age and responsibilities, can teach valuable life lessons. My personal experience with my five sons taught me the importance of earning one’s own money and the benefits of learning through experience. By guiding my son towards earning fair wages for his efforts, we can set a solid foundation for his future achievements.