How much "gas money" for neighbor driving younger kids to school

[Anonymous]

Our street has a HS senior, a sophomore, and 2 freshmen. HS senior offered to drive the 3 younger kids to school. She said no payment necessary, but we told her we would at least give her gas money. School is less than 2 miles away, so actual gas money or even mileage seems like so little - any suggestion on how much would be appropriate to let her know how much we truly appreciate her doing this without being completely overboard and making her uncomfortable since she already declined payment? Thanks!

[Anonymous]

If the parents are paying for gas, I'd just get a nice gift card for Christmas/holidays and graduation.

[Anonymous]

Have everyone pitch in for car wash certificates or a gift of detailing at the end of the year.

[Anonymous]

I can't advise on how much gas money but I wanted to commend you on wanting to give this driver such a thank you gift. The driver was raised well to decline any compensation but her/his willingness to help others should be recognized. Plus by your doing so you are also teaching the kids kindness and what it means to appreciate others' efforts.

[Anonymous]

Please “insist” on paying her if she’s reliable and responsible. All of all passengers should be very well behaved in her car.

[Anonymous]

Maybe give her cash/gift card for gas once a month? $20 or $25 would be roughly a dollar a ride which is what my DD’s carpool charges. A definite perk when it’s hot/cold/rainy!!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Please “insist” on paying her if she’s reliable and responsible. All of all passengers should be very well behaved in her car.

The parents may be saying no. Mine would have said no and I would say no as well. If parents are paying gas and the car it makes no sense to pay for her gas. Get her a gift card twice a year to something she will like. Don't make her uncomfortable by having to decline again.

[Anonymous]

I don’t believe you should take advantage of her kindness. Pay her appropriately, unless there are financial issues. It’s very nice that she offered to help you for free.

[Anonymous]

When my kids drove friends to school, the kids used to give them maybe $5 a week. No big deal if they forgot. My kids were driving regardless.

[Anonymous]

Ds did this, and also declined payment. They gave him $20/month anyway.

[Anonymous]

I'd give $10 each week "toward gas."

[Anonymous]

Just pay her.

[Anonymous]

Gift card to Starbucks for $25/month

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:When my kids drove friends to school, the kids used to give them maybe $5 a week. No big deal if they forgot. My kids were driving regardless.

This seems like a reasonable amount. I would just have the kids give it each week. I like the Starbucks gift card idea, too, but this can be easily used for actual gas or car expenses.

[Anonymous]

$20 VISA gift card once a month.