By default, parents are usually the primary source of a financial education. However, many young people may receive allowances—or even sizable inheritances—without a sound base of knowledge in saving, budgeting, investing and financial planning. To help the children in your life develop a responsible attitude about money, it might help to consider these points:
Be a Role Model
There is a significant relationship between the way children view money and your own spending habits. Instead of viewing money and personal finance as a forbidden topic, discuss your own financial goals and plans. The level and amount of information shared is up to you, but bring the younger generation into at least a portion of your plans. How you deal with money issues—from the monthly bills to planning the family vacation of a lifetime—are important and long-lasting lessons about money management and the value of money.
Encourage Savings and Investments
One of the simplest ways to encourage a responsible attitude about money is to encourage children to save. This could include designating a portion of a child’s allowance to a savings account, or making gifts of cash directly to an account in their name. Discuss account statements together, and stress the concept of “paying yourself first” with dedicated, regular deposits. For younger children, set modest, attainable savings goals. For older children, encourage the development of a long-ter...
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