Pocket money for 4 yr old?

[SuperBunny]

DS is almost 4 and constantly asks for things - sweets, icecreams, toys, magazines, books. It's exhausting.

He has a basic understanding that things cost money but seems to think that there is a limitless supply.

He doesn't need his own cash but I was wondering if giving him a small amount of pocket money might help him learn that when it is gone, it is gone. And that, sometimes, things cost more money than you have.

He could use it to buy a treat from the bakery on a Saturday or something.

Is this a bad idea?

[smellyeli]

We go into town most Fridays and DS (4) knows that he has a pound to spend - usually in the charity shops - and that if he buys a video for a pound he won't have any money left for toy cars! Also, he has put his tooth fairy money in a jar which various relatives have added to, and is 'saving' for a Ben10 watch.... When he asks for stuff otherwise (which he does, all the time, not because he's spoilt but just because he is 4) I can say no with logic attached, rather than just feeling bad. I think you're right, it's never to early to know about the value of money!

[SuperBunny]

That's what I was thinking... and hoping it would relieve the stress of constant requests and whining, tantrums and guilt when I say no!

[CMOTdibbler]

When we are out and about I usually give DS (3) a pound or two (depends where we are and how much I would be willing to spend on stuff) in his purse. He is actually very good now at asking how many monies things are, and deciding what he wants to buy. He enjoys taking his purse out and paying for things by himself too.