Money Talks: [When and How to Start Real Financial Conversations with Your Kids

The Talk They Actually Need

We talk to our kids about grades, friends, safety, and screen time — but when it comes to money? Many families stay silent.

Yet money shapes nearly every part of our lives — from the choices we make to the stress we carry. Starting the conversation early (and often) helps kids develop a healthier, more confident relationship with money.

Why We Avoid It — and Why We Shouldn’t

Many parents feel unsure about how much to share, or they want to shield their children from financial stress. Others simply never learned to talk about money themselves.

But avoiding the topic leaves kids to form beliefs from what they see on social media, hear from friends, or assume through silence — and that often leads to confusion, shame, or unrealistic expectations.

Talking about money helps normalize it. And normalization leads to confidence.

When Should You Start?

The right time is usually sooner than you think. Here’s a guide:

Age Conversation Focus
4–7 Understanding coins, basic spending choices
8–10 Saving vs. spending, how money is earned
11–13 Wants vs. needs, cost of real-life things
14–16 Budgeting, banking, earning money
17+ Credit, debt, investing, financial independence

📌 Apriem Tip: Keep conversations ongoing, not one-time events. Money isn’t a lecture — it’s a dialogue.

What to Say (Without Making It Weird)

Here are some real-world moments to spark meaningful conversations:

At the store:

“We’re choosing this brand because it’s a better value.”

When paying bills:

“This is how we budget for things like electricity and Wi-Fi.”

When they get birthday money:

“Do you want to spend some and save some for something bigger?”

When planning a family trip:

“Here’s our budget — let’s plan together and make it work!”

Should You Share What You Make?

It depends on your child’s age and maturity — but transparency (within reason) helps build trust and context. If you’re not ready to share exact numbers, focus on your values:

“We prioritize giving and saving before spending.”
“We plan our money so we don’t feel stressed about it later.”

Teaching Values Through Conversation

Money talks aren’t just about math — they’re about meaning.

  • Why do we save?

  • What does generosity look like?

  • How do we decide what’s worth spending on?

Your values will shape how your children approach their own money, long after they leave home.

Keep It Simple, Keep It Honest

You don’t have to be a financial expert. You just have to be real.

If your child asks a question you don’t know the answer to, that’s okay. Say:

“Great question — let’s learn together.”

Modeling curiosity, humility, and honesty around money might be the most powerful lesson of all.

Ready to Start the Conversation?

Start small. Be consistent. And remember — you’re not just teaching your kids about money. You’re teaching them about confidence, values, and freedom.

Need help building your family’s financial confidence plan?
We’re here to help. Contact bri@apriem.com to learn how Apriem Advisors supports families across generations.