Allowance for children is a topic that sparks diverse opinions. Some argue that allowances should be tied to chores, emphasizing the importance of earning money through contributions to the household. On the other hand, there’s a contrasting perspective, asserting that allowance should be unconditional, detached from chores, to instill the idea that specific responsibilities are inherent to being part of a family. Regardless of the approach, the overarching goal is cultivating children’s money management skills. While high schools now offer financial literacy courses, the foundation for sound financial habits is best laid early on; according to a 2016 American Institute of CPAs survey, 4 out of 5 adults credit receiving an allowance during childhood with teaching them financial responsibility.
The Critical Role of Allowance in Financial Education
Parents have a crucial role in influencing their children’s comprehension of finances. The Journal of Family Issues highlights that children learn about finances through parental examples and active teachings. However, the study emphasizes the often-overlooked aspect of hands-on practice. Children learn best through doing, making early exposure to money crucial when the stakes are low.
Beth Kobliner, the author of “Make Your Kid a Money Genius,” emphasizes the significance of early financial education. According to her, even children as young as three can understand basic money concepts, and by the age of seven, many of their financial habits are already established. It underscores the importance of initiating financial discussions and practical exercises early on, as children tend to form money habits at an early age.
Types of Allowances: Finding the Right Fit
Choosing the proper allowance structure is a crucial decision for parents. Here are four common types:
- The Unconditional Allowance
This approach involves giving a regular sum without tying it to chores. It separates money lessons from household responsibilities, allowing children to recognize chores as integral to life. While providing consistency in managing money, the downside is the potential need to understand that pay should correlate with a job well done. A 2008 study by JumpStart Coalition found that kids with unconditional allowances had lower financial literacy rates. However, the effectiveness of any method, including absolute allowances, hinges on the family’s commitment to discussing money.
- The Pay-as-Needed Allowance
In this model, children request money from their parents as needed. The downside is the potential detachment of this money from any specific chores or efforts. It encourages frequent discussions about money, evaluating each request on its merits. It may suit parents who believe children should receive funds as family members rather than earners.
- The Earn-Money-for-Chores Allowance
The most common type is where children earn money by completing designated chores. This method establishes a direct link between effort and earnings, instilling a sense of responsibility. However, it requires consistent tracking of completed chores and consequences for unfulfilled tasks. An alternative approach is assigning a monetary value to individual chores, allowing flexibility and encouraging children to choose tasks based on their preferences and capabilities.
- The Hybrid
A combination of unconditional base allowance and additional earnings for larger tasks. This method acknowledges children as contributing family members while providing opportunities for extra income. It fosters discussions about money with each significant task undertaken.
Determining Allowance Amounts
Setting a suitable allowance amount is crucial. A general guideline suggests paying $1 to $2 per year of age weekly. Adjustments can be made based on the number of children, the type of allowance system, and the household budget.
Parents can also assign specific values to chores or consider the purpose of the allowance. For instance, if the goal is to teach financial responsibility, giving slightly less than the amount needed for desired items encourages saving and delayed gratification.
Teaching Responsible Money Management
More than merely giving children an allowance is required; parents must actively teach them to manage money. An American Institute of CPAs survey found that while the average child makes around $1,500 per year from an allowance, only 3% save any of it. To instil responsible financial habits:
- Apportion Funds
Motivating kids to set aside a portion of their allowance for savings is a good idea. This habit will teach them the value of saving money and promote financial responsibility. The three-jar method visually represents how to distribute money into spending, saving, and charity.
- Allow Them to Spend
Allowing children to spend their hard-earned money on desired items reinforces the connection between work and rewards. It helps them understand personal responsibility and the value of earning.
- Other Ways to Teach Money Management
Engage children in activities that teach money management, such as playing board games like Monopoly and The Game of Life. These games provide a fun environment for financial discussions without overwhelming children.
Different Chores for Different Ages
Linking allowances to chores can start at age 3, with age-appropriate tasks like folding washcloths or putting away toys. As children grow, tasks can become more complex, aligning with their capabilities and maturity.
Parents should consider their child’s preferences when assigning chores, allowing them to choose tasks they enjoy or don’t mind doing. It fosters consistency and cooperation while ensuring children occasionally tackle less favoured chores.
Allowance and Chore Tracking
Chore charts or house cleaning schedules facilitate tracking chores and allowances. Visual aids like charts provide a tangible way for children to see their completed tasks and earnings. Digital tools like Rooster Money or Bankaroo offer alternatives for parents inclined towards technology.
Conclusion: Fostering Lifelong Financial Skills
In conclusion, the approach to providing an allowance to children is a personal decision for each family. Whether unconditional, tied to chores, or a hybrid model, the key lies in consistent discussions about money management. Parents are not merely offering an allowance; they impart lifelong financial skills that will shape their children’s approach to money as they navigate adulthood. By choosing an approach that aligns with their family values and remaining actively engaged in financial discussions, parents play an instrumental role in preparing their children for a financially responsible future.