News

17/08/2012 11:59:16

Parents keeping up with the Joneses

A new report suggests that parents feel compelled to keep up with the Joneses when it comes to spending on their children.

Skipton Building Society found that parents spend around £500 a year shelling out on the latest clothes, toys and gadgets to ensure their children fit in at school.

There seems little concept of earning a treat, with 60 per cent of parents admitting that they buy the latest goods as soon as they are asked.

Other excuses listed for giving in to the demands of their offspring include making up for working long hours, bribery and encouragement.

However, Tracy Fletcher, head of corporate communications, said this kind of behaviour could adversely affect the child's wealth management skills.

"This instant gratification could have consequences in the future, though, as children will grow up without grasping the real value of money, or learning how to manage it effectively," she explained.