I really don’t give my kids an allowance, but when they want something, they just ask. The thing is, they are asking for stuff all the time, and typically it is pure junk that will only add to the clutter in our house. Call me a mean parent, but I want a tight hold on what they can purchase. They are 7 & 9-years-old, and I feel like there will be plenty of time for free spending later in life.
All of this said, there are two times each year that I hand out some cash and give them free reign. Those two times a year are when the Scholastics Book Fair comes to their school. I feel like the Fair is a safe environment for them to buy things without my supervision, because little do they know, their teachers and parent volunteers have my back! They won’t short change them, and I know they’ll help them count their money with patience and kindness. I see so much value in giving my kids their own money for the Book Fair, and I know it is one of their very favorite things ever that they will remember for a lifetime.
When I look back on my childhood, the only time I ever really had the opportunity to buy things was when our synagogue had an annual Hanukkah bazaar. I’d come home with candy and dreidels and plenty of stuff that was only meaningful for about 10 seconds. My parents never seemed to mind though, and though I did not retain any of the stupid stuff I purchased from those days into my adult life, I remember loving those Hanukkah Bazaars.
So, kiddos….the Book Fair is for you. Spend freely and have fun all while making money for your school. What a very special opportunity!
My song of the day is Dire Straits’ “Money For Nothing,” because this is probably one of the only times in their lives when the money they spend will be free. I hope they enjoy every moment!
