Midpack
Give me a museum and I'll fill it. (Picasso) Give me a forum ...
I agree with those who’ve said they spend to the extent their kids feel as safe and secure as possible, but they don’t need to know you could afford better homes, cars, etc. - as long as you make sure they’re in good schools.
I suspect this is preaching to the choir for the OP so FWIW.
The examples you set are much more important than what you tell them anyway IME. I’ve known parents who say one thing and do another with their kids and then wonder why the kids don’t listen to what they’re told.
My parents put a high priority on grades and doing well in school.
Both our parents were careful with their money, and we saw that everyday - and they definitely didn’t let us think we could have whatever we wanted (even though we know now they could’ve easily afforded much more). They didn’t waste things either, ever.
They taught us personal finance all our years growing up. We had allowances (do parents even do that anymore), and it meant something - if we wanted something non essential we had to save for it ourselves. DW and I really avoided debt most of our adult lives. Last car we financed was 1982. We paid off our (modest) home 30 year loan in 15 years. All because that’s what our parents ingrained in us.
They made us do chores all our years growing up, even though they could’ve hired the work out.
My Dad fixed things whenever possible, instead of throwing things out and buying new - and he had me at his side teaching me every time. I still take great pride in figuring out how to fix things around the house (it’s much easier now with YouTube). My tools are among my most prized possessions.
I could go on and on, but kids are smart and they follow your consistent example much more than what you say...
I suspect this is preaching to the choir for the OP so FWIW.
The examples you set are much more important than what you tell them anyway IME. I’ve known parents who say one thing and do another with their kids and then wonder why the kids don’t listen to what they’re told.
My parents put a high priority on grades and doing well in school.
Both our parents were careful with their money, and we saw that everyday - and they definitely didn’t let us think we could have whatever we wanted (even though we know now they could’ve easily afforded much more). They didn’t waste things either, ever.
They taught us personal finance all our years growing up. We had allowances (do parents even do that anymore), and it meant something - if we wanted something non essential we had to save for it ourselves. DW and I really avoided debt most of our adult lives. Last car we financed was 1982. We paid off our (modest) home 30 year loan in 15 years. All because that’s what our parents ingrained in us.
They made us do chores all our years growing up, even though they could’ve hired the work out.
My Dad fixed things whenever possible, instead of throwing things out and buying new - and he had me at his side teaching me every time. I still take great pride in figuring out how to fix things around the house (it’s much easier now with YouTube). My tools are among my most prized possessions.
I could go on and on, but kids are smart and they follow your consistent example much more than what you say...
Last edited: