Anonymous wrote:My kids earn way more a month than I would give them in allowance. They do light dog sitting, get mail or packages for neighbors, help with leaves, etc. They're 11 and 13.

I would never pay anyone to bring in my mail. Please introduce me to your neighbors so I can make some extra money.

Anonymous wrote:Yes, my 13 year old gets $60 a month.

Wow that's a lot.

Anonymous wrote:My daughter couldn’t believe that some of her friends don’t get an allowance? Why don’t some parents give their kids just $20 for helping out in the house? It’s pocket change and it makes them happy just do it.

I don't give them money for completing their chores, they complete their chores on their own without bribing as part of their regular routine. If they're going out with their friends they get pocket money.

What would your 12 spend $12 a week on? We don't eat out, get treats, go to movies, shop, etc. weekly. I don't even spend $12 a week on entertainment or non-grocery food/drinks.

My kids do get cash for Christmas and birthdays and that seems to be plenty for now (they are 13 and 10). They also do occasional odd jobs and my older son is paid to ump baseball games. That's enough for them to manage right now and we'll just assess as we go. They both have bank accounts and my 13 year old has a prepaid debit card that we just got him.