October 2012 Wise Stewards Finance Tip

Wise Stewards Finance Tip Series 2, Article 6

“TEACH FAMILY MEMBERS EARLY THE IMPORTANCE OF WORKING AND EARNING.   “In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread” is not outdated counsel. It is basic to personal welfare. One of the greatest favors parents can do for their children is to teach them to work. Much has been said over the years about children and monthly allowances, and opinions and recommendations vary greatly. I’m from the “old school.” I believe children should earn their money needs through service and appropriate chores. Some financial rewards to children may also be tied to educational effort and the

accomplishment of other worthwhile goals. I think it is unfortunate for a child to grow up in a home where the seed is planted in the child’s mind that there is a family money tree that automatically drops “green stuff” once a week or once a month.

–from Elder Marvin J. Ashton’s One for the Money Guide to Family Finance 

I am so grateful for parents who taught me at a young age not to fear good hard work.  I love feeling the satisfaction of a job well done.  One of my biggest goals is to pass this along to my children.  If you have a kid that’s less than enthusiastic about work, you may know what a challenge this can be.  If a young one doesn’t respond well to you “helping them” earn money you may want to enlist the help of trusted neighbors or extended family members where appropriate.  Sometimes mowing lawns or washing windows for someone else can get them excited about work and help them feel pride and responsibility.