I love hearing parents talk about their children wanting to give their money to someone in need. Sure those same children may get in trouble for not sharing a toy five minutes later, but there is an “inner giver” in all of us that starts in childhood. As parents, we can nurture that selfless heart through word and deed.
Photo Credit: London Scout (UnSplash)
This is the 11th interview in an ongoing series centered around kids and money. Today we are joined by my long-time friend and devoted mom, Rachel. We first met while working side by side in the teller windows at our local bank – counting cash and watching the way the world handles its money. It’s no wonder that we both have kept an interest in finance all these years later.
Please tell us a little about yourself and your family.
My husband and I have been married for 13 years. We have one little boy who just turned 8. I am primarily a stay at home mom, but also run our eBay business, volunteer my time at our church, and was just offered a part time job at my son’s school as a cafeteria worker. My husband is an over the road truck driver and is gone typically Monday-Friday. We live out in the country and have a dog, fish and a hamster.
What teachable moment regarding your children and money would you like to share?
We have been avid followers of Dave Ramsey and his financial plan. We have been trying to get out of debt for several years. About two or so years ago we realized our son was beginning to want to purchase his own items himself. We took Dave’s advice, made three money jars (give, save, and spend) and showed him how his money should get divided. He could earn money by doing chores (commission, not allowance).
What was the most rewarding part of the experience for you?
For me the most rewarding part was just seeing him understand the concept of what we were trying to teach him. I also enjoyed seeing him light up when he talks about all the places he could “give” his money to.
What was the most challenging part of the experience for you?
The most challenging, aside from trying to get him to actually DO his chores, is reminding him the importance of splitting up his money and why he should not keep it. It helps me keep him (and myself) in check and remind us not to be selfish.
Let’s say a young couple with a newborn sits beside you on a bus. They lean over and ask you, “What are the three most important things we should teach our child about money?” What do you tell them?
Wow, that’s a tough one.
- Don’t ever give your child money, show him how to earn it.
- Remember there is always someone less fortunate than you, so appreciate every penny you have.
- If you don’t do the chores you are assigned, you don’t get paid. No work=no money.
This article is part of an ongoing series called “Teaching Your Children About Money”. If you have a teachable moment to share, please feel free to tell me about it at lauraharris(at)piggybankdreams(dot)com.
Join the Discussion: How young were you when you learned about giving?