Cash, Kids, and Character: 5 Problems to Solve + VideoMoney & Morals: Teaching Kids to Earn, Give & Grow Character
By Jean Tracy, MSS
What problems do children, cash, and character have in common? Keep reading to learn 5 difficulties to dodge and 3 solutions to choose when giving your kids money.
When Giving Too Much Collides with Character
5 Signs When Kids Become Takers:
- They whine when things are hard, like schoolwork, chores, or sports.
- They expect rewards without trying to do their best.
- They miss out on facing challenges and the joy of success.
- They learn to be lazy, ungrateful, and selfish.
- They grow up in a fantasy world thinking others should give them what they want.
3 Ways Parents Can Raise Expectations not Money
- Expect your children to earn money and privileges through chores, good grades, and respectful behavior.
- At dinner or bedtime ask them, "How did you make your world a better place today?" It will encourage them to be givers, not takers.
- Praise them for their specific acts of kindness to family members to promote mutual love, respect, and cooperation.
Summary: Building Character with Expectations Not with Money:
You explored five warning signs that children may be becoming “takers” (entitlement, expecting rewards, aversion to effort, etc.) and three corrective approaches: having them earn through chores or effort, asking reflective questions, and praising acts of kindness. You saw how expectations — rather than cash — build gratitude, responsibility, and character. You witnessed how conversations at dinnertime or bedtime can shift focus from what they get to how they contribute. With these strategies, you now hold a blueprint for integrating financial lessons and character growth in everyday family life.