Imagine this…you are out shopping with the kids and they haven’t asked for one thing! Nothing is being thrown into your buggy, no one is crying or begging you for you to buy them anything!

How does it feel? Peaceful, relaxing, enjoyable even?

You’re probably laughing silently, thinking that it’s not possible.

I am here to tell you it is! 100% without a doubt - this could be your life too!

Kids are sponges, they learn from your example, but when you try to explain something, many times it falls on deaf ears.

Here are 3 key things that will help you right now:

1. Say no and mean it! You might want to get the earplugs, but trust me…it is easier each time.
   

   Remember, it is for their future, to make them strong.

   No need to raise your voice or give them your famous look (you know the scary one that makes the kids shake in their boots).
   

   Just your normal voice without explanation. “No”.
   

   Doing this over time actually develops more respect for you and let’s face it…they are testing your limits. They want to know how far they can push before they get the dreaded ‘No’.
   

2. The next few times they ask for something, have them do the research.

   Where is the best price? Are there any coupons or price-matching available? Where is the money coming from?
   

   They need to understand that your money isn’t always at their disposal.
   

3. Teach them goal planning. Help them discover actionable things that they could do:

   a) to show that they are responsible enough for the item

   b) to earn the money if they are old enough (allowance or job) or how they could save the money from birthdays and holidays

   c) give them a choice. Here’s what I mean…if I get to choose either having a fun family outing or buying the latest video game, then I am now more invested in the outcome.
   
   My decisions become more meaningful and important. I feel heard and valued when I have a say.
   

   Just make sure to give them a choice of that immediate request and something you actually want to spend money on.

   
   That’s the feeling the kids need to thrive!
   

By putting these tips into practice now, you are putting a halt to the behaviours you don’t like, while encouraging the behaviours you do like.

And…you are saving yourself a lot of tantrums and arguments later!

If your kids are ages 5-8 and you need even more help, don’t fear. The ‘Kids’ Money Course 101’ is here and we’ve done all the work for you.

Sit back, watch the lessons with the kids, and let Dollar Bill do the work!

Dollar Bill takes the kids to Money Island where they follow a map to find the buried treasure. Along the way the kids learn basic money skills, the value of a dollar, build solid decision-making skills and much more!

Check out our lesson plan here: http://emmacarson.teachable.com/p/kids-money-course-101

Let’s face it, not everyone reading this has kids that age. You may need help too!

We have a free Facebook group called the Kids’ Money Course and we’d love to have you join us.

We share money tips and tricks for kids of all ages.

One last thing…we are currently working on our next level ‘201’ for kids ages 9-12 so stay tuned!

Remember: Time flies, be money-wise!