I have to add that this is a very old policy. The rule of 7 has been the policy since at least the 1970s. In those days, I waited desperately to turn 7 years old so that my cousin and I could go alone around Disneyland.
(It was a different world then...at age 7 we got $10 cash and were told...
I have used plasticjungle.com as well. While you don't get the full amount, it is better than having cards sitting around unused.
My first choice is to use the card. Second, to gift it. Third, I use plasticjungle.
Wow, I never knew that if you had a unit installed in the car, you couldn't get the lifetime membership transferred. We have an aftermarket unit and our lifetime offer included three transfers to new units.
I'd take a look at the estimated student budgets for the school. Often they give you some idea of what the school expects is reasonable. I think they are often low, but at least it is an estimate based on the actual experience of the students at that school.
Our Roomba lasted only a year. It was tempermental and frankly a pain to deal with. Liked the idea of it, but I don't think it is a serious product. More like a toy.
Banks and Credit unions all have their own rules on this. My son has had a savings account at our credit union since he was like 2. When he is 13 he can get a checking account with a debit card that has a very strict limit.