The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word APANAGE
A
P
A
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The straight part
We know that "allowance for looking after children?" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case allowance for looking after children? = apanage.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does APANAGE mean?
APANAGE noun- A grant (especially by a sovereign) of land (or other source of revenue) as a birthright.
- A perquisite that is appropriate to one's position.
- To confer an apanage upon.