Research shows that how we behave around money as adults is learned early on from our parents. Implementing good money habits for children early on helps them understand the importance of saving for the future as well as financial responsibility. So it is never too early for children to start learning prudent financial behaviour!
Here are some of the top tips for teaching children how to develop a healthy and responsible attitude to money.
1. Consider rewarding children for regular saving. Don’t focus on the amount saved, but the fact that they are developing a savings habit. Supporting and rewarding them to save even very small amounts on a regular basis will help to embed the habit.
2. Help decide on a savings goal. Children will find it much easier to save regularly when they are saving towards something they really want.
3. Dissuade young people from spending their savings on impulse. Remind them of their savings goal and what they originally wanted to save for. Share with them a story of something that you would have saved for when you were younger.
4. Help develop a savings plan, calendar or mood-board to highlight when their goal will be achieved. Having a visual prop or a visual ‘countdown’ can also encourage them to stick to their target.
5. Give pocket money or allowances in small denominations and encourage them to put a little aside. Giving them a transparent piggy bank or jar so they can watch their money physically increase, is also a good idea.
6. Consider linking pocket money and allowances to chores or responsibilities in the home. This helps to embed the idea that money must be earned. The more effort required to earn their money, the less likely they will be to spend on impulse or all at once.
7. If pocket money and allowances run out at an early stage, don’t rush to replace them. Providing additional money at the drop of a hat will defeat the purpose of giving a set allowance.
8. Why not get them to open their own account in Blackrock Credit Union? This will give them a sense of independence and responsibility.
For further information on Junior Membership of Blackrock Credit Union please click here, phone 012831034, email us using our contact us form or drop in to us at 1 Carysfort Avenue, Blackrock.
