Former NFL player-turned pastor and financial expert Lee Jenkins talks about how to talk to your kids about money in today’s episode of the Parent Cue Live podcast.

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Former NFL player-turned pastor and financial expert Lee Jenkins talks about how to talk to your kids about money in today’s episode of the Parent Cue Live podcast.

YOUR CUE

  • Talk to your kids about money. Your kids can’t grow up to be financially responsible if they don’t understand the concept. Let them hear from you what it means to earn, save, and spend.
  • Teach your kids to be responsible. Put your kids in an environment where they have to be conscious about earning and spending. Invite them into some financial decisions when they’re older.
  • Set boundaries. Talking to your kids about money has a deeper meaning — you’re teaching them about the power of no and setting limitations.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

EPISODE RECAP

For whatever reason, many parents tend to shy away from talking to their kids about money. Whether it’s because you’re embarrassed by your past money-making decisions or simply haven’t carved out time to explain just what a mortgage is, money talk is pretty low on the list of priorities.

If you want your child to grow up to be a financially responsible adult, however, it’s time to start talking to your kids today. Lee Jenkins says the talk should happen as early as four or five years old.

You might be asking yourself, “My kid’s too young for that, right?”

Lee says no. In fact, he shares a telltale sign your kids show if they’re ready to learn about finances and how to handle them responsibly: Place a dollar bill and a quarter in front of your child and ask them which one they want. If they choose the dollar, they likely understand its higher value and are ready to start a conversation.

How to teach financial responsibility in each phase

Financial responsibility doesn’t just happen, it has to be taught, Lee says.

For younger children, start making a habit of pointing out how much items cost. Give them money to purchase something they like, such as candy or a toy. They’ll likely see something else they want to buy, but you can remind them they only have enough to purchase one item.

During the middle school years, it’s important for them to realize there is no such thing as an unlimited supply of money. This is when you begin to explain to them the importance of earning, saving, and then spending. You can reinforce these ideas by giving them jobs around the house to earn their own money.

For high schoolers, Lee recommends every child this age gets a job so they can have an opportunity to manage their money on their own. At this point, Lee shares, parents need to share their personal financial journey — the good and the bad. Sharing both sides serves a purpose, despite your personal feelings.