Children who grow up with frugal parents often learn important lessons about budgeting, planning, and appreciating what they have. In tough economic times, knowing how to stretch a dollar can be genuinely valuable. But sometimes frugality crosses a line. What begins as sensible money management can drift into behaviors that feel restrictive, unfair, or emotionally exhausting—especially for the children living under those rules. When frugality becomes extreme, it can shape childhood memories in ways that stay with people long into adulthood.

Many adults have started sharing stories online about growing up with parents who took penny-pinching to an unexpected level. Some stories are funny, some are frustrating, and others reveal more serious emotional consequences. Together, they paint a picture of how extreme cost-cutting can affect family relationships—not just finances.