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I need my parents to buy me things, but they want to save the money
Recently, I overheard my parents talking about saving money for me and my brothers college tuitions, and about how we should stop spending money on unnecessary things like clothing, and entertainment (amusement parks, going to the swimming pool, etc.). During this summer break, I got to see all my friends go on expensive vacations, while I’m not going anywhere. Also, I’ve been asking my mom for a very long time if she can please buy me some new clothes for the summer, like shorts and tank tops. And I also need new strings for my violin, which can also be expensive. I don’t know what to do, so please help!
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The other two advice givers said all. I agree with what they said. All a parent needs to legally do in raising you is provide a roof over your head, the food you eat and the clothes you wear. However, when money coming in is tight, sometimes even providing these basics are hard. I grew up in such a family. Dad worked two jobs and when we were teens, mom went to work. They still could barely make ends meet. So I began to work, summers where my Dad worked and also did enough babysitting to buy all my own clothes, buy my sister a new ten speed bike because the parents were only able to save up enough for 3 of us 4 kids. I basically could save up and buy whatever I wanted. So I highly suggest you start working. If not old enough for a regular job, there is money still to be made, walking dogs for neighbors or even better, if you can easily use cell phones, there are plenty of older people who have one but don't know how to use them other than a phone call. And when the wrong button is pushed and it gets stuck, I have to call my grown kids to help me. A teen could make great money but introducing themselves to elderly neighbors and asking if they need any help with cell phone, tablet or computer, to call you and give them your name and number. Better yet, make a magnet with your contact info that can go on their fridge so they don't misplace it. I wish I had a neighbor teen to do the very same for me.
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You said you don't know what to do? Next time you write, please include your age. Do you get an allowance? How do you spend your own money? Are you old enough to earn some, yourself? This sounds like a good plan. I think you may need to learn something about what things really cost and what needs to be a priority. Sure, your friends may be going on "expensive vacations", if their families can afford it. Can yours? Or are your own family's priority your future and your higher education? See if you can pick up a few jobs from neighbors or others, doing chores, lawn work, washing cars, etc., and get some spending money of your own going. And by the way, some perspective might also be needed here: there are kids all over the world...who can't worry about getting new clothes or getting entertained, because they haven't got enough food to eat, shelter, or are forced into becoming child soldiers. You may not think you have it so good, until you think about them. You need more money for violin strings? Hey, kiddo, you have a violin ! And lessons? Good luck,
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I think they NEED not want to save money and likely have financial issues that you aren't clued in on or they have downplayed towards you. College education(s) are vital and the right thing for them to save for.
You don't need the latest fashions or certain clothing and will do alright with what can be afforded or even make your own outfits with stuff you can get at a thrift store and look trendy with a little creativity or work with what they are able to give you.
Entertainment and a social life is vital but not their responsibility to provide to you now that you are a teenager. The best way to get violin strings, money for amusement parks, swimming etc is to save whatever money you have and make a budget with that each month.
You're going to need to find a part time job that would cater to your age group and make some money for yourself. Right now there is a shortage of workers due to COVID in fast-food especially, movie theaters and restaurants coming back online. You may have your pick of jobs. I suggest starting to research and find out about what's available and the right fit for you. This would give you everything you need without mom and dad not able to provide it.
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