Money should not be taboo. The sooner we start normalizing the money conversation with our kids, the better.
When we open up the money dialogue with our children, we have an opportunity to understand how much they know about money, and we can shape their views and beliefs to align them with our family values and beliefs.
For example, if your family believes social justice, it is important to pass that belief down to your children, and teach them to buy products and services from companies that support social justice, Additionally, you would want to teach your child to invest in SRI (socially responsible investing) products that align with socially conscious, “green” or ethical business practices.
Every family is different and has different values. Talking to your child about money can help you align your child’s money values with that of your family.
So how do you get started?
I like to have informal conversations with my kids that happen when we are in the car, having dinner or at a store. These conversations are usually prompted by something that we see at that moment, or sometimes I like to bring up topics that I see in the news.
However, if you are struggling with talking to your kids about money, here are 30 questions to get you started. I originally shared these questions on my Instagram profile as two separate posts. Many parents found them helpful, and I hope that you will too.
How much money do you want to earn one day? Why?
If a stranger called and told you that you won a trip to Disneyland for FREE, would you believe them?
What is the difference between a bank card and credit card?
What is the difference between needs and wants?
If you won $1,000,000, but were only allowed to spend it on yourself, what would you buy?
How much do you think a bottle of shampoo costs?
What is a budget?
What can we do today to make someone’s life better?
What is tax?
Can I just buy whatever I want with my bank card?
Can I take as much money as I want from an ATM, just because I have a bank card?
Is it cheaper to cook or buy dinner?
What is insurance?
Why is it important to save money?
What can you do to earn money?
16. What is more important than money?
17. Do you know what a product warranty is?
18. What are you grateful for?
19. Is everyone who has a big mansion rich?
20. Where does money come from?
21. Why do we need to shred important documents?
22. Which of your possessions can you sell right now to make money?
23. Do you know what a passive income is?
24. What would happen if I did not pay our electricity bill?
25. Can we live without money?
26. If you were given $200 right now, what would you do with it?
27. If a TV commercial tells you that their product is the best. Do you believe them?
28. Is a cell phone a need?
29. Why is it important to donate money?
30. Would you rather have $3 million dollars now or 1 penny that doubles in value for the next 31 days?
Let me know in the comments below how the conversation went for you. I would love to know.