Raising financially savvy kids might feel like a daunting task. Between everyday expenses, school schedules, and life’s daily chaos, the idea of fitting in “money lessons” can seem overwhelming. But here’s the good news: teaching your kids about money doesn’t have to be hard, boring, or complicated.
In fact, it can be incredibly rewarding — not just for your children, but for you as a parent too. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering when (and how!) to start helping your kids build smart money habits, you’re not alone. That’s why Crystal Paine of Money Saving Mom recently teamed up with Matt Matheson from Family Money School to offer a free online class: “5 Ways to Inspire Your Kids to Thrive With Money.”
Whether you’re stressed about the topic or just want a little help, here’s a practical breakdown of what this class covers — and why it’s worth your time.
1. Start Early — Earlier Than You Think
A key takeaway from the class is this: you don’t need to wait until your kids are teenagers to talk about money. In fact, the earlier you start, the more natural it becomes. Even preschoolers can grasp simple ideas like saving up for something they want, or the fact that money is earned by working.
The class encourages parents to start planting seeds young — and to treat everyday moments (like grocery shopping or allowance time) as teachable opportunities. It’s not about perfection. It’s about consistency.
2. Focus on the Five Pillars
Paine and Matheson outline five essential financial habits every child should master before they leave the nest. While the class goes into detail, these pillars include:
- Earning: Understanding that money is something we work for — not something we’re just handed.
- Saving: Knowing how to set aside a portion of income, even from a young age.
- Spending wisely: Making thoughtful choices instead of impulsive ones.
- Giving generously: Recognizing the joy and value of generosity.
- Budgeting: Learning to manage what they have and make a plan.
Each pillar builds on the next. You don’t have to master them all at once — but having a framework helps you know where to focus next.
3. Use Stories, Games & Real-Life Examples
If the thought of lecturing your kid about compound interest makes your eyes glaze over, you’re not alone — and thankfully, that’s not what this class is about.
Instead, Crystal and Matt emphasize engaging your child in age-appropriate, hands-on ways. Think interactive games, storytelling, family savings goals, and even fun challenges. These methods keep kids from tuning out and help financial concepts stick.
For example, instead of explaining what a budget is, let your child help create a simple one for a weekend trip. Or let them choose a charity to give to after they earn some allowance. Money becomes meaningful when it’s tied to something tangible.
4. Keep It Simple — And Keep Going
Teaching financial literacy isn’t about having one big “money talk” — it’s about weaving it into everyday life. The class encourages parents to be patient and to normalize conversations around money.
That means it’s okay if your child doesn’t fully grasp a concept the first time. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s building comfort and confidence over time.
As Paine says, “Peace comes from knowing you’ve given your kids tools they can carry into adulthood — even if those lessons unfold slowly.”
5. Give Yourself (and Your Kids) Grace
One of the best parts of the class? It’s grounded, relatable, and realistic.
There’s no pressure to be a finance expert or have all the answers. In fact, the course acknowledges that many parents are still figuring this out themselves. What matters is showing up with a willingness to learn together.
And if you’re worried you’ve waited too long to start, don’t. The truth is — it’s never too late. Whether your child is five or fifteen, you can still help shape their financial future in powerful, lasting ways.
Can’t Catch the Class Live? No Problem.
The original webinar aired live on April 11, 2019, but even if you missed it, you can still sign up to watch the replay. It’s packed with helpful advice, real-world examples, and bite-sized strategies that make teaching kids about money feel doable — even enjoyable.
And while the class itself isn’t faith-based, it does include values like giving, generosity, and intentionality — all of which are central to building a life of purpose and financial wellness.
Final Thoughts
If you want your children to grow up confident in their ability to manage money, now’s the time to start. You don’t need a perfect budget or a background in finance. You just need a desire to help your kids thrive — and a few tools to guide the way.
This free class is a great starting point. It’s practical, encouraging, and full of fresh insight for any parent who wants to raise money-smart kids without the stress.
And who knows — you might even learn a thing or two for yourself along the way.
