I hear a lot of people say how they feel for their kids as they will never be able to afford to buy a home. My 23-year-old daughter bought a home about 2 years ago, which she has tenants in place. She paid about $500,000 for it. My second daughter 22 is currently saving for a deposit so she can buy one in about 12 month time.

Both our kids saw from a young age the importance of working and saving. ‍So while yes it’s very hard, it’s still possible. My kids are doing it. On their own. With no partners. 

Grasping money management from an early age can have a profound impact on a child’s life, setting the foundation for a lifetime of wise financial decisions. As parents, it is our responsibility to arm our children with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complex world of personal finance. By instilling key money lessons, we can empower our children to make informed choices, develop good financial habits, and achieve financial independence.

1. THE CONCEPT OF EARNING

Before diving into the mechanics of saving, spending, or investing, it’s important to teach children about the concept of earning money. Many children may not fully understand that money doesn’t simply appear out of an ATM or a parent’s wallet but is the result of hard work and effort. By introducing simple chores and tasks that earn them small amounts of money, children can begin to understand the correlation between effort and financial reward. This lesson instills a sense of responsibility and highlights the value of hard work.

2. UNDERSTANDING THE VALUE OF MONEY

Once children grasp the concept of earning money, it is crucial to help them understand its value. One effective way to do this is by relating monetary value to tangible items. For example, you can show them how many hours of chores it would take to earn enough money to buy their favourite toy. By making these comparisons, children can gain a practical perspective and comprehend the abstract concept of money’s value.

3. THE IMPORTANCE OF SAVING

Saving is a fundamental money management skill that even adults sometimes struggle with. Introducing the habit of saving early on can have lifelong benefits. Help your children set up a savings jar or a piggy bank where they can store a portion of their earnings. Encourage them to set savings goals for items they want, such as a special toy or game. Over time, they will understand the satisfaction that comes from delayed gratification and the security that savings can provide.

4. THE POWER OF COMPOUNDING

As children grow older, it’s important to introduce the concept of investing and the power of compounding. Explain to them how their money can work for them if invested wisely. Use simple examples, such as planting a seed and watching it grow into a tree that bears fruit, to parallel the growth of money in an investment. Help them understand the concept of compound interest and how it can significantly increase their savings over time. Show them how saving a small amount each week and investing it wisely can lead to substantial growth over the years.

5. SPENDING WISELY

Understanding the difference between needs and wants is fundamental to good money management. Teach your children to prioritize their spending by addressing needs before wants. They should also learn to compare prices, look for deals, and understand the value of quality over quantity. For instance, explain that a more expensive pair of shoes might last longer than several cheaper pairs. These lessons will help children make informed spending decisions in the future.

6. CREDIT AND DEBIT

While the idea of credit may seem complex for children, it’s never too early to introduce the basics. Similarly, the concept of debt becomes highly relevant for teenagers. In an age where credit is easily accessible, it’s critical to educate them about the potential dangers of debt. Talk about the implications of borrowing money, the concept of interest, and the long-term consequences of not repaying debt on time. Consider giving your teenager a loan that they have to repay from their allowance to help them understand that debt isn’t “free money” but a liability that needs to be repaid, often with additional costs.

7. PHILANTROPHY

Money isn’t just for personal gain; it can also be a tool to help others. Teaching children about philanthropy helps them understand the broader role of money in society. Allow your kids to donate a portion of their savings to a cause they care about. This will not only teach them about giving but also introduce the concepts of empathy and social responsibility.

8. LEARNING TO BUDGET

Budgeting is a vital skill that can help kids manage their money effectively. Assist them in creating a simple budget that accounts for their earnings, savings, spending, and donations. This will introduce them to the idea of financial planning and the importance of balancing different financial aspects.

9. THE REALITY OF TAXES

While taxes may be a complex concept for children, a basic understanding is useful. Explain how adults need to pay a portion of their earnings to the government to help fund public services, such as schools, roads, and hospitals. You can even simulate this by taking a small “tax” from their chore earnings. This will help children develop an awareness of their financial responsibilities as citizens.

10. THE IDEA OF FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE

Ultimately, all these lessons aim to make children financially independent. Explain that financial freedom isn’t just about making money; it’s about managing it well, planning for the future, and having the freedom to make choices. Teach your children that money is not just a means of acquiring things but a tool for achieving their dreams, providing for their needs, and contributing to the society they live in.

By imparting these essential money lessons to our children, we equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex world of personal finance. Remember, the goal is not to raise a generation of mini accountants but to help children understand the value and function of money, making them financially responsible adults. 

CONCLUSION

Cultivating financial wisdom in children is a lifelong gift that parents can give. By teaching children to earn, understand the value of money, save, invest, spend wisely, manage credit and debt, practice philanthropy, budget, understand taxes, and strive for financial independence, parents can help them build a solid foundation for a financially successful future. These lessons will guide children to make informed decisions, develop healthy financial habits, and ultimately achieve their goals. Start teaching these money lessons early and watch your children grow into financially responsible adults.