Talking to your kids about the value of money.

There was a question posted on Mamapedia.com that I really wanted to share here: How do you explain the value of money to your child?
With words like 'Recession' and 'Economy' floating around everywhere, kids tend to be even more confused then before about money and the current economic situation. I have also realized that I need to help my daughter understand the value of money and money management to some extent (since she is only five). These are some starter tips that can help the average parent explain 'money' to kids who do not know how to count yet.

1. Money is not given but earned when working. You can help them understand that by giving them money (fake money if you prefer) in exchange for chores or picking up their toys. My daughter always thought that if I wanted money I could just go and 'pick up' (her words) some at the bank, this is a nice way to help her see the relation between work and money.

2. It's important to have money to buy the necessities of life first, like food and shelter; and then if there is any left, other things can be bought like movie tickets and that special toy she has been wanting. Children have a lot of 'wants' and to them everthing is a necessity.

3.Saving our money is important to provide for the future. Sometimes it is hard for young children to understand the concept of 'saving for tomorow', but if you mention a vacation that they have been looking foward to, explain to them that this vacation is possible because of all the planning and saving that you had to do as a family.





image provided by Darren Hester

Couple Time

I stumbled upon a question on Mamapedia from a chicago mom on how she can get some alone time with her husband. I know that it's not Valentine's Day but this past mother's day has got me thinking; sometimes all a mother wants is to spend some time with their significant other 'sans' the kids; with small children that can sometimes be a challenge.

I have come up with a couple of pointers to help make couple time happen:

1. First there needs to be a PLAN, I know all parents know that, if you don't plan it, it's probably not going to happen.

2.Get out of the house for you and your hubbie's time out.

3.Find a babysitter..well, this goes without saying after point #2. Grab grandma, auntie or even uncle if you have to.

These are the three most importants tips for me in creating the coveted couple time.

I know that a weekend away at a romantic B&B is what we all want, but we have to make do with what we have. A night out of the house with the dear husband just to see a movie is great, an evening in the house (as long as the kids are gone to grandmas) is also great, and on the cheaper side for those of us pinching our pennies, a short walk or drive down your street is even better to catch up when you are short on time.

Have fun!