I was given an old-clunker to drive when I was a Senior in high school because we moved 10 miles away and I needed to go to my old school in order to get a full-ride scholarship to college. I guess my mom weighed the money value of it (single mom) and decided that since I was earning straight A's and was going to get a full-ride, Child Support would pay for gas, license, and insurance.

That was where the spoiling ended though. I probably had 5 mix-and-match outfits to wear to school and one pair of shoes... I put myself through college (full-ride scholarship and a student loan for the last year since it took me 5 years!). My mom taught me a LOT about frugality.

I am actually very determined not to spoil my own children although we have not reached the car-driving years it feels like two cars should be enough for a family of 4?!. I do know that we will get them each a cell phone for their own safety (which is actually a HUGE concern of mine and hasn't been mentioned much in this thread) if riding with others or driving themselves but not sure yet about the car. My sister/brother-in-law have their children match them dollar for dollar on any wants (vs. needs).

Our high school is a mile away -- bike! It's easier to park anyway!