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September 14, 2025

Read about our staffGreetings!

I remember Andy, our IT manager (who has been with us since he was 16 and is now 38), coming to me after college talking about all the debt. He lamented that his Mom or school didn't teach him anything about financial responsibility.

This is on my mind now because my niece has asked me to help get her finances organized so she can tackle her school debt.

So let's talk about kids and their money skills. Knowing how to manage spending, credit, and savings early can make the difference between financial freedom and stress later.

Below are five key money lessons to share with your child before they head out on their own. And honestly, revisiting these ourselves doesn’t hurt either.

Be Well,
Anisa

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Five Key Money Concepts To Teach Your Child

1. Balance a Checkbook
Knowing how much is in their account prevents overdrafts and unnecessary fees. Teach your teen to track income and spending, so outgoing funds never exceed what they actually have.

2. Understand Compound Interest
Explain how interest can work for them or against them. Saving early grows their money faster, while borrowing without paying off balances multiplies what they owe.

3. Build a Good Credit History
Paying bills on time opens doors to better loans, reasonable car payments, and even apartment approvals. A good credit score now sets them up for future freedom.

4. Know Gross vs. Net Pay
Kids often expect to spend all their paycheck, but taxes and deductions reduce take-home pay. Help them understand these differences so there are no surprises when that first paycheck arrives.

5. Use Debit and Credit Cards Wisely
A debit card draws immediately from their account, while a credit card charges interest on unpaid balances. Teach them which card to use for safety, convenience, and building credit.

In Closing...

Early AccessMoney habits don’t come naturally for most teens. A little guidance now can save them (and you) a lot of stress later. Small conversations about everyday financial basics will pay off for years to come.

You Said It, We Saved It

In response to the 8/31 edition
"I started running only full loads in the dishwasher and washing clothes in cold water. My electric bill dropped noticeably!" – Maria H.

"I added a water heater blanket and turned the temp down. I honestly didn’t expect it to make such a difference." – Greg L.

Reply back to me with any comments on today's or past issues.

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