How Consistent Allowance Giving Helps Children Develop Financially Savvy Habits
Giving an allowance to children is a great way to teach them about money management and responsibility. However, it is essential to be consistent when giving an allowance to make the most of this learning opportunity. In this blog post, we’ll explore why consistency is vital when giving an allowance to children.
Budgeting
When children receive a set amount of money each week, they can learn to plan and ensure they have enough money for the things they want and need. However, if the amount of money they receive is inconsistent, it can be difficult for them to budget and plan accordingly. They may start having that “money burning a hole in your pocket” feeling when they get access to money because it rarely happens. This can lead to more impulse buying. Oddly enough, the alternative is also possible. Inconsistent allowances may make them feel the need to hoard their money, again because they are unsure when they may get more and want to have at least some money. Both of which can be challenging habits to live with as an adult.
Delayed Gratification
Similarly to helping children budget, consistency in giving an allowance can also help children develop delayed gratification skills. When children receive a regular allowance, they can learn to save their money for something they really want instead of spending it on something that provides immediate gratification but has little long-term value. This ability to delay gratification is a critical life skill that can help children make better decisions about their money. Delayed gratification can also be positively applied to other areas, such as education, career planning, and building lasting and healthy relationships.
Parents can help children build a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling future by teaching them the value of delayed gratification through consistent allowance giving.
Needs Vs. Wants
Lastly, when children know that they will receive a set amount of money each week, they can make better decisions about how to spend their money. This can help them develop a sense of responsibility and understanding of needs v.s. wants. For example, it can be hard to decide what is a need and a want when you always wonder if you will have more money. Everything starts to feel like a need when you don’t think anything is accessible. Consistent allowances help children develop a better understanding of their needs and allow them to prioritize spending. These skills are significant assets when it comes time to set financial goals
Conclusion
Providing children with an allowance is an effective way to teach them financial management and responsibility. But it can only be fully effective if parents or guardians remain consistent in their approach. Consistency helps children understand the value of money and how to use it wisely. By being consistent, parents can create a foundation for their children’s financial success and set them up for a bright and secure future.
