Shaketha McGregor had a brilliant way of teaching a very important life lesson to her kids. All those things they want? They cost money, and money has to be earned.
To demonstrate this, she set up a job fair in her house that included job openings, applications, and a notice for an in-home credit union. The job openings included a kitchen manager, lead housekeeper, and laundry supervisor. She noted, “To apply please fill out the application and turn it to mom immediately! Salary will be discussed during interview.”
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“So, my children continue to ask for a new cell phone, an allowance, and to go places,” McGregor shared. “Yesterday I told them that I’ve heard their requests and that I’ll have a surprise for them today when they get home from school. SURPRISE!!! It’s a whole hiring event! If you want it, work for it, earn it!”
The application included areas to fill in the position they were applying for, other jobs held (home or school experience), whether or not they were willing to work weekends, and their desired salary.
Mom’s Credit Union was also an important factor in this educational experience: “let Mom start you off with a line of credit to help build your allowance as well as character.”
At first, McGregor’s kids were not into the plan, but they quickly filled out the applications once they realized it would help them earn money to buy the things they wanted.
She even hired her younger daughter for a position over her oldest son. He was upset, but she said, “it doesn’t matter, she’s more qualified.”
In addition to helping them earn money, McGregor “wants her kids to be proud of their work no matter what the position may be.” She happily reported to Buzzfeed that the kids are all taking their job seriously.
McGregor also started a Facebook page (This Mom Means Business) just to track the progress of this experiment.