Almost half of the Netherlands’ five-year olds get pocket money, mostly around 50 cents a week, according to new research by family spending institute Nibud.

Researchers questioned 1,622 parents with children at primary school. They say it is surprising so many five-year-olds get money every week. The institute recommends six as a good age because then children start doing sums at school.

In total, seven out of 10 primary school children get pocket money, averaging between €1.50 and €2.30 a week. Some 14% don’t get pocket money at all because their parents can’t afford it.

The survey also shows one third of primary school pupils have a mobile phone, rising to 64% for children aged 10 and over.