Pocket money for kids: teaching decisions, by age
Pocket money is a learning tool, not a reward. Give a fixed amount on the same date for clear things the child buys, and let them make mistakes within small limits. At 6–8 they learn to choose, at 9–12 to save for a goal, at 13–17 to keep a budget.
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Why should a child get pocket money?
A child who has never held money learns the lesson hard, later and at a higher price. Pocket money gives them a chance to make choices with small consequences in a safe setting.
A mistake now, such as spending everything on the first day on something that was not worth it, costs a few lei. The same mistake at 25 costs far more.
What does pocket money look like at each age?
There is no magic age, but children can start as soon as they understand that things cost money, usually at 6–7.
| Age | What they learn | What it looks like |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 | The value of money, choosing between two things | A small weekly amount, in cash, with a jar for savings |
| 9–12 | Saving for a goal | A weekly or monthly amount, a small goal (a game, a book) and a progress chart |
| 13–17 | Budgeting and responsibility | A monthly amount that covers a few real expenses, such as a phone plan or leisure clothes |
How much should you give? Start from what the child pays for
Instead of hunting for a “correct” amount, decide what the child will buy with their own money: snacks, small gifts, games. Add up the cost of those things and you have a base.
Regularity matters more than size. The same amount, the same day, no haggling. A child can only plan if they know what to expect.
What is the three-jar method?
The child splits every amount they get into three parts: spend, save and give. It is a simple method that even small children grasp.
Illustrative example for 50 lei a week: 30 lei to spend, 10 lei to save and 10 lei to give or put towards a gift. You set the proportions together with your child.
Should pocket money be tied to chores?
Opinions differ. A common approach: basic chores are part of family life and are not paid, while pocket money is separate from them. For extra jobs, such as washing the car, a child can earn a bonus.
What works poorly: pocket money as a reward or punishment for behaviour. It loses its role as a learning tool.
What are the common mistakes?
- An irregular or forgotten payment; the child loses trust in the system.
- Taking money away as punishment.
- Always rescuing them with your own money when they run out; the lesson disappears.
- Criticising every choice. A child should be able to spend on something adults do not approve of, within reason.
If your family uses Family Calculator, an older child can log their own spending and see where the money went.
Frequently asked questions
From what age should pocket money start?
Usually at 6–7, when a child understands that things cost money and can count small amounts. Start with a small, simple amount.
What if they spend it all on the first day?
Let the consequence show: they get nothing more until the next date. Then talk calmly about what they might do differently. The lesson sticks better than after a lecture.
Is a card for a teenager a good idea?
It can be, from about 13–14, with a clear limit and, if the bank allows it, a card linked to the parent’s account. A card helps teach digital budgeting.