If you’re waiting until high school to teach your kids about money, you’re already late. Financial education should start as soon as they’re old enough to count coins.
Start with simple ideas. Use a piggy bank or jars labeled “Save,” “Spend,” and “Share.” When they get money — whether it’s allowance or birthday cash — encourage them to divide it up.
By the time they’re tweens, show them how budgeting works. Let them plan a family meal within a budget or save for something they want. These real-life lessons stick better than lectures.
Teenagers can:
- Open a student checking account
- Learn how debit cards work
- Start a part-time job and understand taxes
- Learn about credit and interest rates (yes, before their first credit card)
The goal isn’t to turn them into accountants. It’s to help them make smart money decisions before life forces them to.