As parents begin to think about the back to school and college season, money is something constantly on their minds. School is expensive enough as it is and the little things really add up. Choosing the best way to help your children with their expenses without giving them too much latitude is a real juggling act.
Should I be concerned about giving my child cash?
Yes you should. Cash is the most popular form of payment for many illicit temptations — including drugs.
According to the NCPIE: “students misuse prescription stimulants to ‘get in the zone’ or pull all night study sessions — a habit that is most likely to begin in college”
Cash is a scary thing in the hands of a student and you can prevent that.
How?
Buy gift cards!
Look around your local area, and find the restaurants, grocery stores and spas where your child is most likely to spend their allowance. Buy gift cards to the places they will probably frequent to avoid having to give them cash.
What you are essentially doing is giving them a custom budget that you can control. And, you are preventing them from getting themselves into trouble. (Yes, there’s always a possibility that they will
sell it, but they will be getting less than face value of the card). You are also giving them a valuable lesson in controlling and keeping track of their spending.
So go ahead and help your child lead a healthy life, even in their teen years.
Gift cards can prevent drug abuse.
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