What is Pocket Money?
Dictionary meaning: ”A small amount of money given to a child by their parents, typically on a regular basis.”
Should Kids Earn Their Pocket Money?
Is it ok to just give money without them earning the money? Should children earn their pocket money through chores and responsibilities? Should children receive the money as a given?
These are just a few of the questions every parent asks themselves when the kids grow old enough to need pocket money.
Pocket money has always been a topic in family life. Some parents think that giving pocket money when children do chores will teach them to budget, be responsible, and have good financial knowledge in the future, while others think that chores and children’s responsibilities shouldn’t be rewarded with money.
In this post, we will explore both sides of the conversation- what works and what doesn’t. How different approaches can shape a child’s understanding of money.
The case for earning pocket money
In the adult world, money is earned through work and effort. Many parents believe that pocket money shouldn’t just appear in a child’s hand; it should be earned.
By earning their own money, children see how real life works, where money is tied to effort, responsibility, and contributions. When kids work for their own money, doing small tasks, they begin to understand and value every pound they spend.
Earning pocket money nurtures a strong work ethic. Children build confidence, independence, and a sense of pride in what they have achieved.
The jobs you give your child don’t have to be something super complicated or time-consuming. Simple tasks like making the bed in the morning, putting pyjamas under the pillow, and putting clothes in the wash basket are easy. This will create a routine from when they are little. A routine that will be helpful to them for a lifetime.
I know it is hard for a child to stick to a routine, but let me tell you that it definitely works. I have been going after my kids for months and months with the list and reminding them of their chores. I have been checking whether the jobs are done, and I have been updating the list weekly, so it’s adapted to their age and capabilities.
Real‑Life Experiences: What Worked for Us
Today I sat down in my daughter’s room (she is 13) and I actually said, ”Kristina, this room is tidy, and you have kept it tidy.”
I am telling you, without a lie, that the room was spotless, no clothes on the floor, the shelves were tidy, and the rubbish bin was empty. She also opens the window in the mornings to get some fresh air in the room.
Years ago, when my daughter was born, I actually said I would never pay her money to do chores in the house; she should learn that it’s part of the family to help, regardless of whether she is paid or not, because that will be part of her life when she has a family.
And here I am years later, doing exactly the opposite and seeing the result. We did try without a reward, but it just didn’t work. Is it right or wrong? I can’t tell you at the moment.
Whether if its because she is now actually needing the pocket money for going out with friends, and wanting to buy her own stuff, or is it because it’s turning into a routine for her? Again, I am not sure; time will show.
I just feel this is the right thing to do for us as a family at the moment. Will this change in the future? Probably, kids grow, responsibilities grow, and needs change.
One of the ways my mother taught me responsibility when I was a child—and, admittedly, punished me when I didn’t do my share around the house—was by not letting me go outside to play with my friends.
Back then, we didn’t have phones, the internet, or endless screens to keep us entertained. Our world existed outdoors, and our days were spent running around with the neighbourhood kids. So being kept inside wasn’t just a consequence; it felt like missing out on everything that mattered.
Kids are simple, and they learn quickly; they realise that if they don’t do their share, they will not receive the reward.
The case against earning pocket money
Not every parent is convinced that pocket money should be tied to chores or performance.
Some families decide to separate the household responsibilities from financial rewards.
The idea is that everyone contributes to the home because they are part of the family, not because they are getting paid for it. After all, nobody pays us to do the house jobs and responsibilities.
By removing money from the equation, chores become part of family life and routine. Children learn that jobs around the house are for everyone rather than a paid service.
Does Pocket Money Affect Family Dynamics
One of the strongest arguments against earning pocket money is the impact that it can have on family dynamics. Many families don’t want every job in the house to become transactional. Parents believe children don’t need to earn money to understand how to manage it. A regular allowance, given without conditions, still provides a lot of opportunities for children to learn about saving and budgeting.
But is it right to just give pocket money freely to children? While the younger children find tasks and responsibilities at home to be a fun way to help, older siblings may begin to see chores as optional; they know they will get their weekly allowance regardless of whether they do the house jobs or not.
Finding the Right Balance for Your Family
When children are not paid for tasks, they may become less willing to help. However, parents who avoid linking pocket money to chores often find that their children develop a healthier attitude towards responsibilities, an attitude that doesn’t depend on rewards.
Finding the right approach to pocket money isn’t simple, and there’s no one‑size‑fits‑all answer. Every family has its own rhythm, values, and expectations, and what works for one household may not for another.
Some children thrive when pocket money is tied to effort and responsibility, while others respond better when money and chores are kept separate.
Whether you choose to link pocket money to chores or give it freely, the goal is the same. What matters most is consistency, communication, and understanding your child’s personality.