Sounds really odd, as I sit here, enjoying my own glass of G&T (for now, candy-free). I love the topic here, though, the part about free money, especially. What I think is the worst aspect of this current way of parenting is that it goes against a child's natural curiosity, and instinct to be of use. Obviously, I don't have any kids of my own yet, but when I was working as a babysitter, the kids (smaller or around Smallsteps's age) were always eager to help out with the cooking, or clean up the toys after we were done playing. I remember at one point I even had an argument with the older boy over using a seriously sharp grown-up knife. What didn't occur to me at the time was that he'd been brought up to be responsible.
So, by not allowing or inviting kids to help around the house, it's not just bad 'cause it doesn't teach them about responsibility. It's actively against their nature, I feel.
At her grandparent's she gets paid, but at home, she knows she has responsibilities - like neatening her room and putting her clothes into the washing basket etc. Little things, but they are clear.
A few weeks ago, she asked what our responsibilities as parents are.
Interesting isn't it? A lot of parents treat their kids like they are incapable of taking responsibility over things, and then wonder why they grow up largely useless and dependent. Smallsteps plays with scissors :)
Kids are far smarter than we raise them to be.