When to Teach Children About Money

With Rissa’s vocabulary growing everyday and her love of books, I have been thinking more and more about how to teach her things. I don’t necessarily structure out days for specific learning opportunities but as she continues to grow and develop, I might need to.

Right now we just learn through play. She loves to point things out for me to identify them for her. I enunciate words clearly and slowly while also teaching her the baby sign for that word (if I know it…).

For me, teaching her her letters and animals is pretty easy. Though I don’t always know how to make the animal’s sounds. (How does a giraffe go?)

In a few years I need to start teaching her about money. Right now she doesn’t ask for new toys so it seems too early right now. When it is time, I’ll be referring to Our Family World’s key money concepts for children.

I’m not entirely sure when to start teaching her but I think the earlier the better. Value is kind of an abstract concept, but letting them see you pay for things and explaining what you are doing should help. The time is money concept should sink in if you involve them in chores.

I don’t think there is a right or wrong time to start the learning process, but it is an extremely important one. One thing I definitely took away from Olfa’s article is the need to openly discuss money. Don’t treat it as this taboo thing no one talks about!

My dad was always open and honest with me about bills. Though it didn’t necessarily teach me how to be responsible with my money, I understand bills are a necessary evil and must be paid somehow even if you don’t have the money.

What money concepts do you find important? When do/did you start teaching kids about money?

_________

Image: digitalart / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Darcy Zalewski

Darcy is the founder of “Life With Darcy and Brian,” where she combines her love for education, board games, and crafting to create engaging learning experiences for kids. Her creative projects and writing have been featured in outlets like The Toy Insider, CafeMom, Mom.com, Parents.com, Country Living, and The Pioneer Woman.