subject: Tips For Teaching Kids About Money [print this page] Tips For Teaching Kids About Money Tips For Teaching Kids About Money
Due to the fact that the topic of money was never discussed at school in years gone by and parents also did not discuss this with their children, today many parents find the task of teaching kids about money a little difficult. Many parents are not adequately managing their finances and they are ill-equipped to educate their children on the topic.Luckily, there are some very simple strategies that can be adopted to educate children and parents can adopt these strategies with regards to their own finances.
Young children often do not understand the difference between needs and wants. Neglecting to teach them this at a young age, will make it more difficult for them when they are older. Not understanding the difference between needs and wants can lead to debt at a later stage.
Instant gratification is a leading cause of people jeopardizing their financial security. People are creating debt instead of saving for items they want to buy. In the past, people started off with a smaller car and house and as then building up to a better lifestyle. In modern times, people want the instant pleasure of not having to wait, but buying the item right away.
Children should be taught that just because the item can be afforded does not mean it should be bought. Being able to make the monthly payments does not qualify people to buy things. Overspending should be avoided and some cash should be set aside each month.
Children should be taught to save. Saving teaches kids the value of things and also to be disciplined regarding their finances. Many people save what is left over after spending, but this is not the correct way to do it. One should first take out the savings before spending anything.
Giving is a sure way of receiving and this is an important principle to remember when teaching kids about money. In addition to cash kept aside for savings, children should be taught to give some to a worthy cause or charity of their choice. Cash should not just be given for the sake of it, but parents should explain the importance of giving in terms of being more privileged and being rewarded for good deeds.
