Kathy Peel Kids & Family Coach

by Deborah Kotz, Special to AOL Coaches

While Oprah says motherhood is the hardest job in the world, Kathy Peel has transformed it into a corporate executive position. Running a household, Peel says, is like being the CEO of a large company, meaning you have to be an effective manager if you want things running smoothly. As with her previous books, Peel’s positive can-do attitude makes tasks seem less daunting. And she doesn’t shy away from pointing out her own shortfalls. She writes, “I’m skilled at many things, but as I’ve said before, cooking is not one of them.” She then goes on to give quick and easy tips for making bland foods taste better.

'The Family Manager Takes Charge' covers virtually everything you need to know about managing your home, your family and yourself. Peel assumes that her reader is a stay-at-home mom who can’t afford to hire much household help, though stay-at-home dads and working moms can also benefit from this book. Chapters are organized into the 15 roles of a family manager from interior decorator to accountant to building manager to menu planner. The book is comprised of hundreds of tips and fast solutions for problems that crop up. Delegation is key, and Peel tells you how. Household chores, for example, have been broken down into age-appropriate lists for children.

Peel emphasizes that you don’t need to be a drill sergeant to maintain a tidy and efficient household. In fact, you should prioritize and let things slide from time to time in order to reduce stress. That’s probably a good idea since Peel’s list of tasks can seem a bit daunting if you follow them to the letter. Most busy family managers won’t have time to rub oil of clove on wood bookshelves to prevent mildew. Then again, her sensible advice will serve you well and save you time in the long run. Hang lower bars in your children’s closets so they can hang up their own clothes. Why not? And Peel, herself, says that she doesn’t intend for you to apply all of her tips. The one missing component from this book, which is in Peel’s other books, is the self-nurturing of the family manager. After taking care of everyone else’s needs all day, that bubble bath or yoga class should not be forgotten.

1. Buy 'The Family Manager Takes Charge'
2. 'The Family Manager's Guide To Summer Survival'