Teaching kids lessons of personal finance

As we advance further into the digital age, where most financial transactions occur with the tap of a card or the swipe of a phone, it has become more crucial than ever to teach children how to manage money in a way that resonates with their experience. The traditional method of learning about finances through cash and a piggy bank is quickly becoming obsolete. Today's children are growing up watching their parents use digital wallets, make online payments, and even engage with new forms of currency like cryptocurrency. To prepare them for this evolving financial landscape, it's essential that parents and educators introduce financial concepts early-tailoring the lessons to fit the reality these kids are familiar with.
Teaching kids about saving, budgeting, and spending wisely doesn't have to be a dull or tedious task. There are numerous apps and tools designed specifically for children that make learning about money enjoyable. These interactive tools can help kids set saving goals, track their spending, and even gain a basic understanding of investing.
The key to effective financial education lies in ensuring that children understand money as more than just abstract numbers on a screen. Money represents choices, opportunities, and responsibilities that will shape their futures. By humanising these lessons-such as explaining how borrowing money comes with the obligation to repay it, or how building good credit can create future opportunities-we equip them with the knowledge to avoid common financial pitfalls. Teaching children how to navigate debt, grasp the value of credit, and budget effectively will help them grow into financially savvy and confident adults.
Ultimately, providing children with a strong foundation in money management now will set them up for long-term financial success in an increasingly digital economy.

Ayesha Momtaz Maliha
Student
North South University
[email protected]