Monday, September 21, 2009

How to Save Money

You know the easiest way to save money? Start young, so it's second nature. I know a lot of families don't discuss finances with children, and it's a real shame--where else will they learn? My kids are still young, so we haven't gotten into anything real detailed, but I have presented choices. I let them know there is a certain amount of money available, which is enough to either do "a" or "b". Judging by the amount of credit card debt a lot of people have, I think this lesson is sadly missing from our society. I figure it's a good idea to teach them right from the get-go that they can't just buy every toy they want or take every lesson they want, they need to make choices based on the funds available. And if the funds aren't available, they need to save up until they have enough. Since they are kids and have no financial responsibilities, we make them save 50% of any money they get. They put half their money in their piggy bank (which they are allowed to spend when and how they choose) and they put half in our safe (which they are not allowed to spend, but they think is REALLY cool to count and see just how rich they are...).


P.S. yes, Sedona has a bigger piggy bank. It was the only one I could find when it was time to get her one. Sierra got one just like it, only she'll be getting it as a birthday present, so it's still put away at the moment

3 comments:

Richard Hoffpauir said...

Leslea directed me to your blog post today, probably cause I am always talking about this subject too. I agree 100% about teaching kids early about money. Our consumer based culture almost frowns upon the concept of being financially literate.

I bought Abby a compartmentalized piggy bank that I plan to use in a couple years when she is ready.

http://www.msgen.com/

TennZen said...

BRAVO! I love it!

The Hills said...

The compartmentalized piggy bank is too cool! I hadn't seen anything like that before!

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