CA$H Maine

Creating Assets, Savings & Hope

« Back to Article

Talking to Kids About Money

Written by New Ventures Maine | Published on April 1, 2022

Image of family in front of a house

Not sure how to talk money with your kids?

You might have reasons that you haven’t yet started to talk about money with your children. It might feel awkward, boring, preachy, or difficult. You might not know where to start, or when it’s the right time. But you probably know it’s important to start.

Keep in mind that you’re teaching about money, on purpose or not

Your children are constantly watching and listening, so they might absorb more than you think. When you shop for a bargain, or splurge on a treat, or plan a special occasion, you’re showing your kids how you think about money.

Play to your strengths

Even if you don’t think of yourself as a money expert, you do have skills that you already use to navigate your financial life. Things you do naturally may be strengths you can share with your kids.

Think out loud

From your actions, your children often draw their own conclusions—and sometimes they might not be what you intended! When you think out loud, you clarify what you’re doing and why. Try getting into the habit of thinking out loud during your day-to-day money and time management, so your kids can follow along.

Read a book with your young child

It’s often easier to be more objective when talking about book characters and their money decisions. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Money as You Grow Bookshelf program uses popular children’s books to get you started reading and talking about money choices like saving, spending, and more.

For more information read the full article from the CFPB here.