Either parent can claim the allowance in our case since I work in Zug. I think you may have to work at least 50% to claim.

I know this because after the new rules were introduced, I started claiming it and I am the lower salary earner, working 60%.

All Kantons have paid the same amount since Jan 2009. chf 300 per kid per month with no reduction for subsequent kids like there used to be.

You apply through the SVA (I think from memory) and you need to submit (generally through your employer) birth certificates for all kids and your marriage certificate - so your employer can't simply set this up for you and start paying you.