Pocket Money, Apps, and “Just One More Thing”: Helping Children Learn to Spend Online

At some point, most parents realise that pocket money no longer stays in a wallet. It moves through apps, games, and digital stores, often with just a few taps. For children, this can feel exciting and grown-up. For you, it can feel confusing, especially when money seems to disappear quickly.

Digital spending is not just about avoiding mistakes. It is also an opportunity to help your child learn skills they will use for life.

Why Digital Spending Feels Different to Children

When money is physical, children see it leave their hands. Online, it is less real. Small amounts feel insignificant, and in-game purchases or subscriptions often look harmless.

Many apps are designed to encourage impulse spending, with time-limited offers or rewards that promise progress or status. Your child may not fully understand that these small purchases add up, especially when they are linked to entertainment or friendships.

The Upside: Learning Responsibility in Real Time

Handled well, digital spending can help children understand budgeting, prioritising, and decision-making. Giving your child some control, with clear limits, allows them to make choices and experience the consequences in a low-risk way.

You might notice your child becoming more thoughtful over time, saving for something they really want or deciding not to spend because they value their money more.

Talking About Money Without Making It Awkward

You do not need a formal lesson to start the conversation. Simple questions can be enough. Asking what they want to spend money on and why, or how they felt about their last purchase, keeps the tone open rather than critical.

It also helps to explain how online payments work in plain terms. Children are often surprised to learn that subscriptions renew automatically or that refunds are not always guaranteed.

Setting Clear and Calm Boundaries

Clear boundaries protect both you and your child. These might include agreeing on a monthly spending limit, turning off one-click purchases, or requiring approval before buying extras in games.

Framing these limits as support rather than control makes a difference. You are not saying no to everything. You are helping them learn how to manage money safely.

When Things Go Wrong

Most families experience at least one moment where a child spends more than expected. If this happens, try to treat it as a learning moment rather than a punishment.

Talking through what happened, how it could be avoided next time, and what the consequences are builds understanding and trust. Taking everything away immediately can shut down future honesty.

The Takeaway

Online spending is part of modern childhood. With clear conversations, realistic limits, and a bit of patience, you can help your child develop healthy money habits that last well beyond their first app purchase.