Money and young children

Although children rarely learn to understand the value of money until they are much older, it does help them if your family can talk about money and the concept of a family budget together. They need to learn that there is a certain amount of money that comes into your household and that there are expenses, such as food, shelter, and clothing, that must be paid. You don't want to worry your children about the bills or make them feel guilty that they "cost you too much." You do want to teach them the basics about income and expenses.

Do we really need to discuss money so early?

Most experts agree that when it comes to teaching kids about money, the sooner the better. By observing their parents, children become aware of money, and unless otherwise informed will believe that money "comes out of the ATM machine." Helping them learn that money is earned by working will go a long way to creating a sense of responsibility about handling money and the knowledge that is doesn't "grow on trees."

Once children learn how money works, they often display an instinctive conservatism. They may hoard every penny and nickel. Early on you have the opportunity for teaching about saving, in a piggy bank and even in a bank account that earns interest. You have the chance to discuss spending and talking about what the money can buy. You might set up a "family piggy bank" to illustrate what it is to save for something fun for the whole family. Once your children are teenagers, they are less likely to listen to your advice, so take advantage of their interest at a young age.

No matter the age of your children, they can be part of a family meeting to decide how some of the discretionary income is to be spent. Having a part in the decision making will help them understand the value of money and that there are often limits on spending so some purchases must be deferred.

How do allowances fit in?

There is no right or wrong way to give your children money. There are no simple answers about how much money children should get. It depends - upon your family's values, circumstances, age, and expectations.

Although children can get money in different ways, most experts agree that beginning to have money at an early age - by the time they are starting school and can count it - is important for learning about money. When children are young, having small amounts of money to manage helps them prepare for the day when the amounts get much bigger.

Most experts also believe that allowances can be an important teaching tool. However, they are quick to caution against tying allowances to either chores or achievements. Allowances are for learning about financial responsibility; chores are for learning about family responsibility; getting good grades is about personal responsibility.

Here are some common tips to help with allowances for your children: