Money Messages Kids Learn at Home and How to Make Them Positive
Money is a topic that can bring up a range of emotions in any household like stress, excitement, anxiety, or even joy. As parents, we might not always realize it, but our kids are constantly learning about money from the way we handle it. Whether we’re stressing about bills, rewarding them with purchases, or talking openly about our financial goals, our children are picking up messages about money every day.
Here’s how to recognize and reshape the most common money messages kids learn at home.
Money Myths
Money is hard to get.
One of the most common messages children pick up at home is that money is scarce or difficult to earn. Parents who constantly worry about finances may unintentionally pass on this message.
The Impact: If kids grow up thinking that money is hard to come by, they might develop a scarcity mindset, which can lead to financial stress or unhealthy habits later on.
How to Change It: Shift the conversation to focus on how money can be earned through hard work and smart decisions. For instance, teach your kids the importance of saving for things they want, and explain that it’s okay to delay gratification to achieve financial goals. Reframe the question by asking “How can we afford this?”
Money is happiness.
While it’s natural to treat our kids occasionally, over-relying on material rewards can send the message that money is the key to happiness.
The Impact: Kids who associate money with happiness may develop materialistic tendencies or feel empty when money isn’t involved in every experience.
How to Change It: Teach your kids that happiness comes from relationships, experiences, and doing things that bring joy not just spending money. Focus on spending quality time together, and let your kids know that some of the best things in life are free.
We don’t talk about money.
Many families avoid discussing money, especially when things are tight. But this silence can create confusion and anxiety for children.
The Impact: Kids who never hear realistic conversations about finances may grow up ill-prepared to handle money on their own.
How to Change It: Normalize financial discussions by making them age-appropriate. Talk about budgeting, saving, and the choices you make as a family. This will help your kids feel more comfortable managing their own finances as they grow older.
Be the positive money role model your kids need.
With a little effort, you can help your kids build the skills and mindset they need to make smart financial decisions for a lifetime.
So, here’s the real question…
Are you teaching your kids how to be financially smart or are you just passing on your money fears?
