The Parent Coaching Institute (PCI) has announced the release of From Allowance to Independence, a new book by PCI Certified Parent Coach Christine Donavan. Co-written with Certified Financial Planner Dylan Martin, the book provides a simple framework for teaching children—from toddlers to teens—how to save, budget, spend wisely, and give generously. The announcement matters because it addresses a common parenting challenge: how to raise financially responsible children without entitlement, and it does so through a values-based approach that aligns with PCI's strength-based coaching model.
Donavan, who is certified through the Parent Coaching Institute, is also the author of Let, Lift, & Listen: A Timeless Framework for Effective, Guilt-Free Parenting of all Ages and Stages. The new book applies the Let, Lift, and Listen system to financial education. In her coaching practice, Donavan found that money issues frequently arise. She explained, "Often I hear, 'My child is so entitled. How do I teach them to be more grateful and appreciative of what we give them? How and when do I give an allowance? Do I pay for chores? They don't understand money.'" Rather than spend coaching time on basics, she wanted to give parents a self-guided framework. "In short, the book removes the 'teaching' so I can focus on the 'coaching,'" she said.
The book's emphasis on values distinguishes it from other financial parenting resources. Gloria DeGaetano, Founder and CEO of the Parent Coaching Institute, stated, "The focus on values is what I value most about this book. Most other books on this topic stress the material aspect. Not this one." DeGaetano added that the book focuses on "the why of saving, budgeting, spending, while adding the importance of giving generously," making it an extraordinarily useful tool for parents who want to keep material assets in the context of helping others.
Donavan noted that the book enhances her parent coaching practice by allowing clients to read the material and bring questions to sessions, so she can stay in the coaching role and help each parent work through money conversations unique to their family. This approach reflects PCI's mission. PCI Certified Parent Coaches® address each family's unique needs through a coaching model that is strength-based and recognized as an innovative leader in family support. The PCI offers a year-long online Parent Coach Certification® program in affiliation with Southern New Hampshire University. Applications for the 2027 Spring Term will be accepted from Dec. 1 to Feb. 1, 2027.
