DD1 (9) and DS (7) get a base rate of $5 per week. For this they are expected to help around the house and keep their rooms tidy. Just recently, DD asked if she could earn more to buy a new saddle blanket for her horse. She is supposed to get an extra $5 per week (so $10) for folding the washing. I was pretty pleased about this arrangement as folding is my least favourite household duty! However, she hasn't kept up with the washing so she has only received $5 one week (NO folding) and $6 the next (one basket). DS has his $5 base and he earns an extra $1 per week for taking the rubbish to the outside bins and helping DH put the bins out and bring them in on rubbish day, $1 per week for helping to feed the animals (chickens, horses, dogs, cat) and $1 per week for.... hmmm.... I can't remember!! He has earned his full $8 each week and enjoys the extra jobs.

DS spends his money the minute he receives it, DD has a wallet full of cash and looks at a lot of stuff but decides not to buy it! They can spend their pocket money on whatever they like - toys etc. We buy all of their clothes and I am very happy to buy books. DD horse rides and DS has a dirt bike and we pay for all the lessons, safety gear etc. I won't buy a new saddle blanket because DD already has two perfect ones, she just wants a new colour!

We also put money into an account for them each week by direct debit but they are not allowed to touch it until they are 18ish, when it will be for a car, a big holiday etc.

DD2 doesn't get pocket money, but she never misses out!