Article By: Dee Jones, President of Light 2 World, Inc.

Mommy, can you give me two dollars? Daddy, I need more Robux skins for my computer game; they’re only $10 dollars. The list goes on and on. There are times I think children see parents as a Money Tree! What can be done to teach our kids about money? Let me share a few ideas and tools.

The Haley Way Foundation suggests using real money to teach children financial literacy. The more senses are engaged, the better. Homemade matching games and counting activities are useful with young children and those with disabilities.

Next, be a role model for your child. Engage him/her as you manage a budget and/or give to your favorite organization. Our son has a wallet and he gets an allowance for the chores he completes. A piggy bank or alphabet bank works also. Start young!

ABCJesusLovesMe shares stories and videos about saving, tithing, and giving to those in need. Another resource is a web app called Dollars & Cents. This interactive technology uses games and animation to foster counting skills, spending money, and other fun activities

The Family Christian website offers4 simple steps to get started:

  1. Teach children how to budget. Help them divide their allowance into categories such as giving, tithe, and saving.
  2. Pick a favorite cause. Let them see you give to a cause as well.
  3. Teach about tithing. The Bible teaches about tithing and children’s Bibles illustrate this concept in a simple way.
  4. Save for short term goals like a holiday gift.

As with all important decisions, teach your child to pray about finances. Children notice when there is someone in need, they may see a homeless person or the Salvation Army worker may ask for a donation. These are teachable moments to discuss ways to help others. Encourage your little one to pray for others who are in need.

Resources:

Read more articles from VOM Magazine here: www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine