In an era where every penny counts, Lauryn Clare’s innovative approach to treating her daughter at Starbucks has stirred quite a buzz online. Lauryn took to Instagram to reveal her secret: ordering a ‘pup cup,’ a Starbucks item traditionally meant for dogs, as a free treat for her two-year-old daughter, Adeline.
The Instagram Reveal
Lauryn shared a video on Instagram Reels showcasing her daughter enjoying a cup of whipped cream, the Starbucks pup cup. The video’s caption stated, “Parent hack. If you can’t afford Starbucks for two, order your child a pup cup. It’s free and will make them just as happy as a $5 cake pop.” The video rapidly garnered the internet’s attention, sparking both admiration and criticism.
In an interview with Today, Lauryn explained the origin of her hack. She was on a Starbucks run with a limited gift card balance and needed to find an affordable way to treat her daughter, who had just woken up from a nap. “I knew Addie was going to want something. So I asked: ‘Do you guys charge for pup cups?’ The woman taking my order was like: ‘Oh, my God, no. What’s your dog’s name?’” Lauryn recounted.
The Online Reaction
While many parents applauded Lauryn’s ingenuity, others were quick to criticize. Comments ranged from questioning why a toddler should have Starbucks at all to debating the ethics of ordering a pup cup—a menu item meant for dogs.
“Why give a toddler Starbucks to begin with?” one commenter asked. Another wrote, “Wait, y’all buy your kids something every time you get a coffee? ‘Mommy’s coffee’ is just that… adult privileges lol.”
Lauryn’s Defense
The frugal mom didn’t shy away from defending her choice. Responding to her critics, she explained, “I can afford a cake pop, people. But if she’s happy with a cup of whipped cream? For free? Helloooooo.” She further added, “Moms in the comments get it. If you don’t, just kindly go away. My kids get everything they want all the damn time, and my two-year-old daughter doesn’t need to understand my finances.”
A Common Practice
The story resonated with many parents who shared their own similar experiences. “Yep, I call it a kid cup! Sometimes I get cookie crumbs or ask for chocolate chips on top! If you get a nice worker they will!” one parent shared. Another humorously recounted, “I did this with my niece, and then eventually she put her foot down and was like ‘I want the pink drink.’”
Even Starbucks weighed in on the matter, with a spokesperson stating, “We love seeing the different ways our customers brighten loved ones’ days with Starbucks. Customers can order a side of whipped cream with the purchase of a beverage at no extra charge.”
Lauryn’s Starbucks hack ignited a conversation about parenting, budgeting, and the small joys that can be found in everyday moments. While opinions are divided, her story highlights the creative ways parents can navigate their finances and keep their children happy.
References:
Today: Mom’s free Starbucks hack for kids stirs heated debate. The coffee company responds
People: Mom Defends Getting Her Daughter a Free Starbucks Pup Cup: ‘What Is the Difference?’
Lauryn Clare on Instagram
Starbucks Secret Menu