Allowance vs. Expected Chores: What Canadian Parents Really Think

Raising children comes with many decisions, and one of the most debated topics among Canadian parents is whether kids should receive an allowance or whether chores should simply be expected as part of family life.

Our latest poll for CanadianParent.ca members asks:

“Should kids get an allowance, or should chores be expected?”

This topic often sparks strong opinions, because it touches on teaching responsibility, developing financial literacy, building work ethic, and establishing household expectations. Below is a balanced look at both sides of the discussion.

The Case for Expected Chores (No Allowance)

Many parents believe chores should be completed as a normal part of living in a household, not as something tied to financial rewards. The idea is that contributing to shared responsibilities helps children learn life skills and understand the value of teamwork.

Reasons parents choose this approach:

1. It teaches responsibility without external rewards.
Children learn that household tasks must be done regardless of whether they are paid for them.

2. It prevents “What do I get?” behaviour.
Some families find that when money becomes part of the equation, kids become less motivated unless a reward is promised.

3. It reflects real life.
Adults are not paid for everyday tasks like tidying up or doing dishes. Parents who choose this method want to instill the same mindset in their children.

4. It keeps things simple.
No tracking payments or negotiating chores. Expectations remain consistent.

The Case for Giving an Allowance

Many Canadian parents believe that allowance is not a payment for chores but a tool for teaching money management and financial independence.

Reasons parents choose this approach:

1. It teaches money skills early.
Allowance gives children hands-on experience with saving, spending, and planning.

2. It reduces impulse spending.
Kids learn to save for items they want instead of relying on parents to buy everything.

3. It builds financial confidence.
Early understanding of money can help kids avoid poor financial habits later in life.

4. It increases motivation.

In some families, allowance makes chores run more smoothly and helps reduce arguments.

Some parents tie allowance directly to chores, while others give a regular allowance and reserve payment only for extra or optional tasks.

A Middle-Ground Approach

A growing number of Canadian families use a blended model:

• Everyday chores are expected as part of family life.

• Bigger or optional tasks can earn extra money.

This approach allows parents to teach responsibility without turning every task into a transaction, while still giving kids opportunities to learn money management.

When Should Kids Start an Allowance?

There is no universal rule, but many experts suggest:

• Ages 4–6: small, simple weekly amounts

• Ages 7–10: consistent allowance with saving goals

• Ages 11–14: beginner budgeting or youth bank accounts

• Ages 15+: debit cards, part-time jobs, and real-world financial planning

The amount matters less than the learning opportunity.

What Canadian Parents Tend to Prefer

Canadian families often take a balanced and practical approach. Many believe chores should be expected, while also recognizing the value of teaching children financial literacy. A hybrid model appears to be the most common choice among today’s parents.

This makes the poll especially interesting, as there is no single correct answer — only what works best for each individual family.

Final Thoughts

Both approaches have clear benefits. Whether you choose to give your child an allowance, expect chores without payment, or use a blended approach, each method teaches valuable life skills. Responsibility, teamwork, and understanding money are all important topics, and families can decide how to approach them based on their own values and routines.