<p>FWIW, I didn’t work a summer job until I was in college (and then I did it frosh, soph, and junior summers), and I don’t hold it against anyone (my children included) if they don’t. I think it’s great if kids do and obviously it teaches them the value of a dollar. $1600 seems like a lot of money to last the year for discretionary spending.</p>
<p>We found that $50 per month, slipped to her on breaks and by various members of the extended family (those grandparents like to feel they are helping out, you know!) worked for us. I would say that our daughter in BS is on the parsimonious side of things.</p>
<p>I think the “right” number depends on many factors: the school, your child’s circle of friends, and their own tendencies/values. What seem generous to some will seem stingy to others. Do what you can afford and start smaller rather than bigger.</p>