Teaching kids good financial habits

In an era where financial landscapes are constantly evolving, the importance of teaching the next generation the art of making good financial decisions can’t be overstated. Instilling strong financial values and imparting essential savings habits at an early age can help pave the way for a positive future.  

This article delves into the benefits of teaching younger generations about financial literacy and provides some simple tips to help motivate potential lifelong money-smart habits.
 

Why financial education matters  

Empowering young people with financial knowledge is similar to providing them with a toolkit for navigating the complex world of money. Financial Advice New Zealand highlights that early exposure to financial concepts improves decision-making skills, confidence and overall well-being.
 

Setting the stage for success

Introducing financial literacy concepts to children doesn't have to be daunting. Starting early with simple yet impactful lessons can make a world of difference. For example, pretend shop play can be a fun way for young kids to learn about physical money. Or encouraging them to save a portion of their pocket money, when they are a bit older. This can be complemented by the ‘three jar system’ as an example, where kids allocate money for spending, saving and giving. This simple practice can help encourage thoughtful spending and promotes a sense of generosity.
 

The power of compounding

The power of compound interest is an important concept for anyone but especially young minds. As a subject matter expert, John Hancock suggests that teaching children about how money grows over time can be a game-changer. Using relatable examples, like the growth of a plant, can help demonstrate the principle of compounding interest. This knowledge encourages children to prioritise saving early on, harnessing the power of time to build wealth gradually.
 

Building responsible spending habits

Another vital aspect of financial education is teaching younger generations about responsible spending. Encouraging them to compare prices, evaluate needs versus wants and to make thoughtful choices can help. NZ government resource Sorted, includes ideas like letting kids help write out the shopping list and explaining the importance of sticking to it when you’re shopping together.  
 

Exploring real world financial concepts

As children grow older, gradually introducing them to more advanced financial concepts can help deepen their money understanding. Teach them about budgeting by involving them in planning family outings and vacations. Discuss the importance of setting financial goals and making strategic decisions to achieve them. According to Sorted, a clever way of introducing kids to the concepts of delayed gratification and opportunity cost, is via a game of double or nothing.

Nurturing the financial wisdom of our next generation is a priceless investment in their future. By instilling the principles of responsible spending, saving and investing, we may equip them with the tools to navigate the financial landscape confidently. Through simple practices, like teaching and modelling positive financial behaviour, and involving them in real-world financial decisions, we can help them build habits that will serve them well throughout their lives.