That may be true. But I'm convinced that kids don't appreciate the distinction. These cards also make it easy for parents to pass the buck on their own responsibility. Otherwise, she complained, she has to order for him, and he has to repay her in cash. But that's the way things should work.
Debit cards can be a convenient next step for kids who are already good cash managers.
That way, money going into the account comes from their resources, not their parents'. Once teens have a debit card, it can carry them right through college. They won't need a credit card, not even for emergencies. But I'll climb that soapbox in another column. Dr. Tightwad can't reply to each question, but she will answer questions of general interest.