Thrive Thought: Intentional Parenting on Money

THRIVE THOUGHT
Intentional Parenting on Money – Giving, Saving, Spending

“Mom, this is hard work,” my five-year-old declared as he vacuumed under the kitchen table, a chore I have given him to earn a small allowance. Vacuuming would not be such a daunting task if not for his three-year-old sister, whose attempt to hit her mouth at mealtimes is extremely haphazard.

“Work is hard,” I replied. “God gives us the ability to work hard and earn money.”

Share Basic Truths with Your Kids
I use simple statements to share basic truths like this in hopes to be intentional in my parenting. According to the Christian Stewardship Network, “An excellent time to begin teaching kids about money is as soon as they become aware of money… between the ages of three and five.”

“The best source for financial education is the Bible. God’s word is full of wisdom and instructions about wealth, riches, and money.”

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 reveals how to teach God’s principles: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” (NIV)

Many of the Bible-based curricula and articles aimed at teaching children about money management suggest introducing jars or envelopes to split earned allowance into three categories: giving, saving, and spending.

Five-year-olds may not need much assistance thinking about how to spend their money, but parents can help kids consider giving to others and saving money for the future.

Model Stewardship with an Eternal Emphasis
Parents are wise to model these systems as well. We should talk to our children about the work God has skilled us to do, the money we earn, and God’s call for us to steward His money wisely. My own faithfulness in giving, saving, and spending God’s money takes wisdom, a study of God’s Word, and discernment from the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV) says, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Conclusion
“Teaching kids about money is something we must do intentionally and consistently.” Start with the basics: give, save, spend—in that order. “Teaching them about money should be done in the context of everyday life and every season of life because money, its value, and meaning in life—when properly understood—will equip them for a meaningful and fruitful life.”

• Share Basic Truths with Your Kids
• Model Stewardship with an Eternal Emphasis

Resource: “When, What, and How to Teach Your Kids about Money”

Erica Smith lives with her husband, J.R., and children Jeremiah and Eva in Fort Wayne, IN. She has spent her career in the financial services industry and is actively involved with Pathway Community Church’s Thrive Ministry.