2 . Money Matters

Parents should help their children understand money.     1    . So you may start talking about money when your child shows an interest in buying things, candy or toys, for example.

● The basic function of money

Begin explaining the basic function of money by showing how people trade money for goods or services. It is important to show your child how money is traded for the things he wants to have.If he wants to have a toy, give him the money and let him hand the money to the cashier(收银员).    2    . When your child grows a bit older and understands the basic function of money, you can start explaining more complex ways of using money.

● Money lessons

Approach money lessons with openness and honesty.     3    . If you must say no to a child’s request to spend money, explain, “You have enough toy trucks for now.” Or, if the request is for many different things, say, “You have to make a choice between this toy and that toy.”

●     4    

Begin at the grocery store. Pick out two similar brands of a product—a kind of name-brand butter and a generic (无商标消费品),for example. You can show your child how to make choices between different brands of a product so that you can save money.     5    . If he chooses the cheaper brand, allow him to make another purchase with the money saved. Later, you may explain how the more expensive choice leaves less money for other purchases.