How might one deal with a 5 1/2 yo who wants money to buy junk food at day camp? For example, gatorade costs $1 and a snow cone costs $2.
I would rather the young fellow eat the nutritious lunch I pack for him, with healthy foods he likes.
Parenting Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for parents, grandparents, nannies and others with a parenting role. It only takes a minute to sign up.
Sign up to join this communityHow might one deal with a 5 1/2 yo who wants money to buy junk food at day camp? For example, gatorade costs $1 and a snow cone costs $2.
I would rather the young fellow eat the nutritious lunch I pack for him, with healthy foods he likes.
Gatorade isn't really "junk". I would give him $1 only per day. He can buy the Gatorade, or "save" so that he can buy a snowcone in 2 days. A lot of lessons there -- having a budget, delaying gratification. My opinion: it is important for him to have some freedom to buy stuff with his friends at a special more-independent place like camp. Even if he has more restrictions when at home.
Tough question, gray zone here IMO.
My vote is 5 1/2 is still too young to make good decisions. If your child, in YOUR opinion, can't yet understand why healthy food is better, then it's up to you to restrict what he eats.
Socialization is always important, but sure he can socialize playing. And each family has its own rules.