3 Financial Habits I’m Teaching My Kids This Month

Let me start by saying this:

If I had a dollar for every time one of my kids asked me, “Why can’t we just buy it?”—I’d be able to just buy it.

But instead of giving in (and going broke), I’ve decided it’s time to double down on something way more powerful than instant gratification: financial literacy, family-style.

So this month, we’re tackling three money habits in our household that I wish I had learned before the age of 30… preferably before I signed up for a Blockbuster membership and a $2,000 credit card limit at 19.

Here’s what we’re working on:

1. The “Save, Spend, Give” Jar System

I gave each kid three jars (or envelopes, or Ziploc bags—whatever was closest to the junk drawer that day).

SAVE: For big goals like bikes, video games, or “a pet lizard” (still in negotiation). SPEND: For small stuff they want now, like candy, Roblox, or whatever TikTok made them want this week. GIVE: For donating to causes, church, or helping out someone in need (like a little brother who blew his spend jar on gum).

Why it works:

It teaches intentionality. It gives them freedom and boundaries. Plus, they start to realize that money doesn’t just vanish into thin air—it goes into Amazon’s cart and never returns.

2. The Weekly Money Check-In

Sunday afternoon: 15 minutes. No phones. Just a quick chat about:

What they earned (chores, babysitting, tooth fairy payouts—hey, income is income) What they spent What they’re saving for next

I keep it light, and I bribe them with snacks if needed. I also share what we’re saving for as a family (like hockey season, or that leaky dishwasher that’s trying to flood our kitchen).

Why it works:

It normalizes money talk. They ask questions. I get to slip in wisdom without sounding like a TED Talk. Win-win.

3. The “Do I Really Need This?” Rule

Before buying anything, they have to ask themselves:

“Is this something I really need, or will I forget about it in 3 days when it’s under my bed covered in Cheez-It dust?”

We talk about wants vs. needs (again). We practice waiting 24 hours before buying (harder than it sounds when you’re 13). And sometimes, I let them make bad purchases… because that’s how you learn that a glow-in-the-dark slime kit is not a good investment.

Why it works:

It teaches patience, decision-making, and that not all “limited-time offers” are actually limited. Also, it dramatically reduces the number of broken toys I find in couch cushions.

Final Thoughts From The Money Dad

I’m not expecting my kids to become Wall Street analysts by next week. But I do want them to understand that money is a tool—not magic—and that every dollar has a job.

And the earlier they learn it, the fewer financial facepalms they’ll have later on.

Until next time—

Stay money smart, raise legends, and never underestimate the power of a well-timed dad joke.

— The Money Dad

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