A common misconception that you may have is that your parents are made of money.  Your parents may make sacrifices such as working two jobs or going without so you can have what you need.   You may not think that you're asking for much (perhaps just $30 for the movies and a meal) but remember they have also had to fork out for groceries, electricity, gas and phone bills, fuelled up the car, paid the rent etc. Next time you ask your parents for money, offer to do extra chores to earn it.  Learning to save up from your allowance is a valuable skill that will help you in adult life.