To not allow DC to buy what they want with their pocket money?

[JaxxiePax]

Hi,

Is it the norm to allow DC to use their pocket money as they please?

There's some things I'd much rather he didn't buy and wondered if it would be unreasonable to have some set things he can't use it on?

He's 11 if that makes a difference.

Thank you

The thing you've said that really resonates with me is that it makes him play these games even more, and it sounds like that's already been an issue for you if I read it right. I'd be inclined to moderate his game time as well as him spending money on these virtual coins. I'm of the opinion that pocket money should be to facilitate going out and being independent.

YABU

I'd rather give less to mine than dictate what they do with their own cash. The tricky bit is being clear about what that pocket money is for. Some parents give a lot, but kids are expected to pay for everything with it, others just give enough to buy a little treat.

If his pocket money is expected to cover outings and hobbies, then you wouldn't teach him anything by paying for them if he runs out of cash.

YABU. The idea is that it is their money. My gran used to say I could drop it down a grid if I wanted.

YABU. It would grate with me but it's their money to spend as they wish, much as we think it's a rip off. Having said that, the only thing I don't let dd1 spend her money on is sweets. She gets enough without having to buy more.

My niece saves her pocket money to get VIP on Moviestar planet . She shows me all the different things she buys with them and clearly loves it , if your son gets enjoyment out of the game then why not.

I think if you're giving it to him as his money you can't say what he can spend it on . He won't learn anything if you stop him from spending it independently , I wouldn't intervene unless he was buying something dangerous or inappropriate.

Their picket money, theirs to do as they like. They don't need permission to spend it.

No different to adults wasting money on alcohol that just gets drunk and wrecks people's bodies and personalities.

Totally unreasonable sorry. DD spent £5 of her pocket money on plastic crap from Poundland a few weeks ago. It broke within the hour. She hasn't wasted a penny there since!