I've completely changed my stance on what it means to "help out" my kids. I use to have a firm "no allowance" rule, but now they each have a "Mommy Daddy Bank Account" (they're all under 11) and their "allowance" is interest gained on savings. I offer a ridiculous interest rate so that see the rewards of savings (though the rate goes down as their total goes up...I couldn't afford a flat rate). Any time they get gift money from grandparents or earn it with small jobs, I ask if they want to put it in their "Daddy Bank" and they always immediately say yes, and every month I update them all on how much each made in interest (so that those who earned less interest see that if they save they'll get more free money at the end of the month).

Anyway, I'm with you that parents can help their kids financially without spoiling them.