Tips for helping your child learn about money
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The document provides tips for parents to help children develop good financial skills from a young age. It discusses three key concepts: 1) distinguishing needs from wants, 2) prioritizing and making good choices, and 3) understanding the consequences of choices. The document recommends dividing income into categories of Give, Invest, Save, and Spend (GISS) to teach how money can be used. It emphasizes that financial skills are best learned through hands-on practice and modeling good habits.
Tips for helping your child learn about money
- 1. T h e Pa re n t s G u i d e t o K i d s a n d M o n e y © Tips for Helping Your Children Get Off to a Great Financial Start By Nancy Phillips, HBSc., EMBA
- 2. We all want to provide the best for our children. We want them to enjoy everything that life has to offer and grow up to lead happy, accomplished lives. Because our financial situation affects all aspects of our well-being — health, education, career, relationships and personal interests — children with a good financial education will be better prepared to make the most of life. Many parents right now aren’t sure what to teach their children about money. This guide is designed to provide a solution with simple steps you can take to help your children learn the skills they will need to live a bright and fulfilling future. The advice in this guide is most applicable to parents and grandparents with children and grandchildren between the ages of four and thirteen.
- 3. Simple Steps You Are the Most Influential Financial Financial skills are made up of simple, basic life skills that build upon each other, just as a child learns to sit, crawl, walk and then run. We don’t learn to play a sport or drive Teacher Your Child Will Ever Have a car solely by reading a book — we must have hands-on practice to learn from our successes as well as our mistakes. Both types of experiences are important for developing knowledge of what works and what doesn’t. The same applies to managing money — a child needs consistent and frequent hands-on practice. Modelling and learning from observation are two of the most powerful methods of learning in all young children. Waiting until the teen years for the “money talk” is too late; habits and beliefs around money have already been created. Mastering money management skills is all about You Are the Most Influential Financial learning through everyday life experiences and becoming competent at consistently making good decisions. Taking the time to discuss these experiences will significantly Teacher Your Child Will Ever Have 2 affect your child’s future. 3 Parents are important financial role models because children begin learning about Financial results come from the small decisions we make money through modelling and observation from the time they are toddlers. and actions we take each day compounded over time. As parents, we need to help our children learn to prioritize • What children observe on a daily basis affects their values, belief system and habits. and make good choices as well as help them learn from their mistakes. • Starting early is critical to developing good self-control, a key factor in future financial success. • Children are very interested in learning. They know money is an adult “thing” and are thrilled to be involved. • Most schools don’t have comprehensive financial literacy programs. • Managing money effectively is a skill and thus needs to be practiced to be mastered. • Small lessons during everyday life can have a significant long-term effect. • The act of saving and spending helps children learn about their inner values and interests. • Goal setting is a key factor for life success.
- 4. Power The How to Teach of Three Three key concepts work together to provide children with a Divide all income into categories — Give, Invest, Save, Spend (GISS). This teaches good foundation of financial life skills. the different ways money can be used and is one of the most powerful wealth building habits a child can develop. No matter what your child’s age, there are a few key concepts you want them to Use cash — Children need tangible, visual experiences with money to truly under- learn over time: stand the “exchange.” This will help your child’s numeracy skills and prepare them more effectively to use debit and credit cards. 1. The differences between needs and wants Tell stories — They help create visual images and emotion which enhances memory 2. How to prioritize and make good choices and learning. 3. Understanding the consequences of those choices Look for every day teaching opportunities — You don’t have to add a half hour a day for structured lessons. Use experiences at the store, the gas station or as you make dinner. 4 Take the time to explain things — Needs and wants differ for everyone based on 5 their interests and what they value in life. Provide tools — Wish lists, file folders and tracking sheets can help with decision making and organization. Help your children learn valuable lessons from mistakes — It is critical for a child to feel secure and not fear failure; this is how they gain knowledge which will aid them in future decisions. Encourage creative “entrepreneurial” thinking — Give your children opportunities to problem solve. If they want to buy an item they don’t have enough money for, ask them ways they may be able to earn the money. If they are determined to get the item, they will take action to earn and save for it.
- 5. GISS T h e Po w e r f u l This framework for managing money is simple, hands-on Method of Money Management™ and effective. Each category within this system plays a vital role in your child’s understanding of the various 6 ways money can be used.
- 6. GISS T h e Po w e r f u l 10% 15% 25% 50% Give Invest Save Spend This is an ancient concept often referred to as Investing is an abstract concept for really young It is critical for children to learn how to set and This is the category that helps children learn Method of Money Management™ “tithing” which means “a tenth.” Giving is a very children, but it can be learned gradually. Initially achieve goals and that goes for the financial part how their actions have consequences. Once valuable concept for children to learn early on it can be explained as the money your child grows of their lives as well. As children work toward children use their own money for purchases, because as they begin to give to various causes, to use when they are older. The key here is that specific goals, whether it’s saving for a bike or they begin to consider the cost and value of they become aware of their ability to help others they get in the habit of having money being dedi- a toy of some kind, they learn the steps needed things. It’s much better for a young child to and make a difference in the world. Children cated to their “non-working” years. It is an essen- to achieve the goals. And when they do achieve have a chance to handle money and make 6 need to be taught how to be thoughtful and kind, tial part of financial independence, as a secure the goal, the self esteem they feel can be very mistakes with a few dollars than it is to send especially in this fast-paced world. Contributing retirement increasingly depends on our individ- powerful. It shows them what they are capable them off to college and expect them to learn on to worthy causes increases their self esteem and ual savings and investments. Many people save of and makes them feel more confident, which their own. Mistakes are not bad things; they are feeling of “community.” Acts of kindness have but end up spending their money on material allows them to set bigger goals. Self-discipline lessons that need to be learned. Buyer’s remorse been proven to affect people in a very positive way; items such as cars, boats, etc. and not on assets and good decision making are fundamental over a cheap broken toy teaches a strong lesson this is especially good for children because of the that will create wealth for them to live on when lessons in personal development and success. about quality even to a pre-schooler. feeling of empowerment and joy it gives them. they retire. Children can understand that the idea Parents need to give their children the oppor- of investing is to use the money you have today tunity to set and achieve small goals so they are Children need the opportunity to learn how to to make more money, to make it grow. It is inspired and feel confident to pursue their bigger handle and make good decisions with money. important that they realize they don’t have to start dreams. As children get older, this category will The next time you see your child about to make out with a lot — they have time on their side. eventually be divided up for such items as tuition, what you consider a bad spending decision, cars, a home and providing for their own family. think about how valuable it will be for him to experience the consequences now, when only Self control is a key indicator of future financial a few dollars are at stake. Try not to object to success and one of the best ways to develop it is his purchase unless there is a safety issue or the by saving. Saving helps teach delaying gratifica- item is not in line with the family’s values. This tion which is a very important part of emotional newfound responsibility tends to lead to very development. Giving children everything they thoughtful outcomes over time. want as they grow up often leads to them feeling very unsatisfied and unfulfilled as adults. One of the major benefits of the GISS money management system is that it allows your children to think and plan for their future while they learn to manage money in the present. Always keep in mind that one of the most important financial skills you want your children to learn is how to spend wisely.
- 7. Why Do It? Allowances — A Tool for Teaching Hands-On Money Management Repetition is one of the most critical elements of learning, along with experience The purpose of giving an allowance is to help children learn how to manage money and emotion. By providing a consistent and frequent opportunity for your children effectively. Managing this money is their “practice time” and helps teach them about to divide and manage their money, they will gain experience and knowledge of what consequences of choices and personal responsibility. The experience also allows them works and what doesn’t. The process of dividing money into “Give, Invest, Save and to begin to appreciate the value of things. Spend” categories is powerful because it provides: • repetition and relevancy which are critical for learning and developing new habits Decision Making and Responsibility Beginning an allowance involves a shifting of responsibility from the parent to the • memory skills such as counting and sorting coins child. Once children have a finite amount to spend on their candies and toys each • opportunity for critical thinking and decision making week, they will begin to learn the cost of things and to thoroughly think through their choices. This decision making process is critical in their development of money • profound and meaningful conversations between parent and child become a part management skills. of daily life 8 9 • practice in goal setting and the progressive steps Tie it to Chores or Not? necessary for goal achievement When considering this question, the first thing to look at is the goal of giving an allowance — it’s really about creating learning opportunities. • opportunity for children to be responsible for their own money decisions and the pride that There are numerous experts who believe allowances should be tied to chores and comes with the responsibility there are many who believe it shouldn’t be. There are certainly many ways you can set up an allowance system. These experiences all work together to make a memorable learning experience and create the foundation for good financial habits. A Simple Solution — The “Mini” Allowance Since simplicity is critical for success, one effective approach you may want to try is the method billionaire J.D. Rockefeller used with his family. It involves giving a small amount of money to your child each week so she can learn to manage it. If she wants to earn more to buy something specific, she needs to work to earn the extra money. This method encourages hard work and goal setting while ensuring the child gets consistent practice managing money each week.
- 8. Mistakes to Avoid How Much and When? The most common time to start an allowance is around age five or six. At this age, children are interested in knowing more about money and buying things and they are learning to count quite well. The Amount • Assuming someone else will teach your child about money This will depend on several factors including the child’s age, how often you are giving it and what expenses you are expecting it to cover. For young children, a common rule • Consistently talking negatively about money or not talking of thumb is $.50 to $1.00 a week per year of age. The amount is directly related to the about finances at all items you are expecting your child to buy with the spending portion of the money each week. Set expectations clearly so your child knows what the allowance must • Assuming you have to be a mathematical genius or investment cover and what it doesn’t. The amount and responsibilities will change as the child wizard to teach your kids great financial skills matures and takes on expenses such as personal toiletries, entertainment, clothing and gift giving. • Teaching children only how to be spenders For young children especially, be sure to pay the allowance in small bills and coins, • Making mindless, unplanned purchases so the child can count out the money for the four categories. This is excellent practice for their numeracy skills. • Overindulging children with “stuff” 10 • Getting upset at a child’s decision and not identifying the 11 When? lesson within the “mistake” Give the allowance the same day each week. Many parents find the beginning of the week more effective than Fridays as the money can easily disappear over the weekend, • Giving stock “yes” or “no” answers to save time leaving none for the remainder of the week. It’s helpful to write “allowance” on the calendar so you remember. It’s important not to • Going to the mall as a regular pastime. forget for several weeks in a row as your child won’t be getting the practice the allowance was intended to provide. Your child is always watching and learning. Consider the values you are communicating Increases before you open your wallet. Most parents choose to increase the allowance annually so that it is clear to the child that raises won’t be an ongoing negotiation. Choose an appropriate time for your family. Some of the most common choices are: birthdays, the beginning of a new year or the beginning of a school year. There are many formats in which an allowance can be given; the key factor for your child is that he is provided an effective way to manage his own money on a consistent basis.
- 9. The Key to Effective Money Lessons Consistency, personal relevancy, age-appropriate responsibility and a lot of hands-on Your kids have the capability practice are the foundation of effective money lessons. You don’t need to be a financial expert to successfully teach your children how to manage money, but you do need to commit to discussing basic money topics frequently to learn these skills during daily life. Benefits to Parents As you begin to actively teach your children about money, you will benefit as well. and you have the capability Parents say they feel relief knowing they are teaching their children critical skills required for future success and well-being; they feel decreased stress because the requests for money and items virtually disappear. to teach them… 12 Moms and dads are often surprised at how resourceful and responsible their children are when given the opportunity to handle their own money, and these parents feel great pride in their children’s ability to learn these concepts. There is also a lot less guilt when parents realize that it doesn’t benefit their child to buy them everything they want and that saying “no” may be tougher initially but is ultimately better for their child So Have Fun in the long run. With It! Other benefits include increased bonding with your child by discussing topics that are relevant to their everyday life and future plans. And finally, you may find that your own financial habits improve as a result of helping your children get on track. Next Steps • Commit to being your child’s #1 financial teacher. • Begin teaching your children financial skills during daily life starting NOW by telling stories, sharing experiences, using cash to help them practice their numeracy skills and helping them set up a GISS banking system so they can learn the different ways of using money.
- 10. Tips for Helping Yo ur C hildren Get Off to a Great Financial Start Talking with your children about money and helping them develop good financial habits is more important than ever. You can transform your child’s future by helping them learn basic financial life skills. As they practice, learn new skills and develop responsibility for their financial decisions, your child’s capabilities will improve and they will be better equipped to lead financially independent lives during adulthood. Parents, you have the opportunity to change the course of history for your children and the entire next generation by inspiring your children to set big goals for themselves and then providing the necessary tools to achieve those goals. Progressive learning of financial life skills is about adding building block upon building block over time. There is no rush; the concepts don’t have to be taught all at once. Each life stage has new opportunities and challenges to be explored and learned. The tools discussed in this guide are basic building blocks that form a foundation for your child’s financial future, building blocks that are simple to teach and fun to share. Enjoy yourself as you watch your children take ownership of their new responsibilities with pride. Share the joy when children realize their potential to learn and achieve is limitless! Nancy Phillips is the mother of two young children, the creator of the Zela Wela Kids financial products and president of DollarSmartKids Enterprises Inc. Her mission is to help improve the financial and life success skills of our youth globally. LWI Financial Inc. (“Loring Ward”) is an investment adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Securities transactions may be offered through Loring Ward Securities Inc., an affiliate, member FINRA/SIPC. B 12-014