Watching Your Wallet: Financial literacy for kids

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Financial hardship can affect families in a variety of ways, including emotional exhaustion, irritability and increased anxiety.

A new study from the Kids Mental Health Foundation found that more than one in three parents rank financial pressure as a top source of stress during a typical month. Experts say those challenges can also affect children, making communication within the family important.

Dr. Whitney Raglin Bignall, associate clinical director, said parents should begin conversations about financial stress by understanding what their children already know.

"I think based on their questions and what they understand, I like starting conversations, asking children what they know. Because I think then you can kind of take the conversation based on what they know and then enhance it," Bignall said.

While children may not fully understand financial challenges, Bignall said they can often notice changes in their daily lives.

"They may need a conversation if you notice that there are parts of their lives that are going to change. And then if they are, being clear about what they are and making sure they know it's not their fault for why things are changing," Bignall said.

Those discussions can also serve as opportunities to introduce financial literacy concepts. As children get older, parents can begin teaching healthy money habits, Bignall said.

"I think it depends on the age of your child. And so usually, I think, especially for young children, you just want them to know that things are a little bit more expensive. And so as a family, we're going to have to budget a little bit more and maybe introduce the difference between needs versus wants a little bit," Bignall said.

The Kids Mental Health Foundation offers a free resource for parents focused on when and how to talk with children about financial stress and money concerns.

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