This woman makes her five-year-old daughter pay rent

A mum in the US has admitted to charging her daughter rent, despite the fact that her daughter is just 5 years old.

Taking to Facebook to share her unusual parenting technique, Essence Evans revealed that she gives her little one $7 pocket money every week but makes her give back $5 to illustrate the money she’d have to pay toward bills when she’s older. Note that the Facebook post in which Evans explained all this is no longer available.

After paying $1 each for rent, water, electricity, cable, and food, her daughter is left with $2 to spend on whatever she wants.

Though her money method may sound a bit harsh, she went on to reveal that she is actually putting the money she collects from her daughter into a savings account for her.

Essence Evans is charging her five-year-old daughter rent. Source: Facebook/Essence Evans
Essence Evans is charging her five-year-old daughter rent. Source: Facebook/Essence Evans

“Now, what she doesn’t know is the $5 is actually going away in her savings account, which I will give back to her when she turns 18,” she explained. “So if she decides to move out on her own she will have $3,380 to start off.”

Evans continues: “This strategy not only prepares your child for the real world. But when they see how much real bills are they will appreciate you for giving them a huge discount.”

Essence's daughter doesn't know it, but her mum is putting the money into a savings account for her. Source: Facebook/Essence Evans
Essence's daughter doesn't know it, but her mum is putting the money into a savings account for her. Source: Facebook/Essence Evans

But parents were divided about the mum’s unique way of teaching children the value of money.

Some thought the parenting method was a great way to help children understand the concept of money.

“You are an awesome mother / teacher!! We need more parents to teach their kids this!!!” one user commented.

“I wish this was a thing when I was a kid,” another agreed. “I’d probably be in a better situation buy now.”

Essence's controversial Facebook post. Source: Facebook/Essence Evans
Essence's controversial Facebook post. Source: Facebook/Essence Evans

Others, however, thought that at 5, her daughter was too young to be learning such lessons.

“Why nor let the poor kid enjoy her childhood?” one user wrote.

“No … noooo. She’s 5. FIVE. All she understands is you taking away her money. Doing way too much,” another user agreed.

Whatever your thoughts are on the mom’s financial tactic, she’s likely enforcing her money rule for all the right reasons and hoping her daughter grows up knowing the value of money and how to live within your means. And let’s face it, that’s a lesson most grown-ups could use too.

Got a story tip? Send it to tips@yahoo7.com.au

Want more celebrity, entertainment and lifestyle news? Follow Be on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr and Instagram