Talking Money With Kids and Teens

How can families and educators help students develop healthy money habits early in life? While there is growing momentum for personal finance education, more than half of the country doesn't guarantee lessons at the public high school level let alone in the younger grades. Join New York Times and Washington Post finance columnists as we explore why, when, and how to talk with kids and teens about money.
 

Guests:

• Ron Lieber, "Your Money" columnist for The New York Times; author of "The Price You Pay for College" and "The Opposite of Spoiled"
• Michelle Singletary, "The Color of Money," personal finance columnist, The Washington Post; author of "What To Do With Your Money" and "The 21 Day Financial Fast: Your Path to Financial Peace and Freedom"

Host:

Uche Amaechi, lecturer on education, HGSE

Key Takeaways:

• Seize the moment to talk about money with kids from the car seat onwards. Financial literacy starts in the home and then school.
• Every money conversation sends a message to kids about values. Frugality is fine but explain the reason and purpose.
• Manage college expectations based on your family's income. Start conversations early about your ability and willingness to pay.

Resources:

• State of Financial Education Report (Next Gen Personal Finance)
• Financial Smarts for Students (Jumpstart.org)
• Your Money (New York Times)
• Too Young for Finance? Think Again (New York Times)
• Michelle Singletary's Money Milestones for Every Age (Washington Post)
• 6 Money Tips New Graduates Should Know (Washington Post)
• What Parents Need to Know About 529 College Savings Plans (Washington Post)
• I Didn't Go to My Dream School. Now I'm Living Debt-Free (Washington Post)