Money Smart Kids Archive

Debit Versus Credit Cards for Kids

Teens usually don't have the maturity to handle credit wisely.

Putting Santa on a Budget

Here are six ways to keep holiday spending on your kids under control.

Think Like a Kid

The best way to teach children financial literacy is to figure out what they want (and need) to know. Here's help.

A Bailout From the Bank of Mom and Dad

The parents of a 33-year-old woman have to help their daughter change her overspending ways on SOAPnet's new reality show. Will they succeed?

TV Shows That Foster Good Money Skills

Your local PBS station offers some good specials that address kids and money.

More Things Kids Want to Know About Money

In part two of this series, Janet Bodnar answers children's questions about jobs, saving and investing.

What Kids Want to Know About Money

In part one of this two-part series, Janet Bodnar answers children's questions about allowances, cell phones and more.

Is Your Child Ready for a Credit Card?

Don't rush your kids into credit too soon. They need to have the maturity, experience and income to handle it.

Advice for Parents as Their Kids Head Back to School

Now is a great time to teach your children lessons about managing money. Here's how.

Five Lessons From Boomerang Parents

What to expect when your adult children move back in.

The Princess Brides

Don't assume your daughter will marry a prince to pay the bills. Teach your girls the importance of smart money management now.

Co-Sign for a Credit Card?

A new law will limit access to credit until kids turn 21 -- unless a parent co-signs. Here's why you shouldn't give in.

Best Age for a Cell Phone

Kids shouldn't have a cell phone until they're old enough to help pay part of the bill.

Financial Literacy for the Whole Family

Advice to help parents and children learn to save, invest wisely, use credit sparingly and live within your means.

Keep It Simple When Talking to Kids About Money

If your children are worried about the economy, reassure them and keep your discussion age-appropriate.

Sites That Foster Good Money Skills

Kids can learn about personal finance with these three great online sources.

What You Said About Debit Cards for Kids

Many readers disagreed with Janet Bodnar when she warned against giving teens prepaid or reloadable cards.

Say 'No' to Debit Cards for Teens

If you want to teach your kids about managing money, stick with cash.

Should You Buy Your Kids the Finer Things?

Don't kid yourself. Parents who shower their children with pricey duds and designer labels are doing it for their own benefit, not the kids'.

Confession: I liked 'Shopaholic'

This chick flick may not be entirely practical, but it's surprisingly fun. Plus, read the true confessions of a young adult adjusting to life on a budget in the real world.

Dear Sasha and Malia

With all due respect, I'd like to suggest that the Obama kids need a fiscal stimulus.

Turning the Page

As I enter a new phase of my career, I urge parents to remember how much influence they have to help their kids grow into financially healthy adults.

What Santa is Bringing to My House

To cut back on my spending this year, I asked my kids to trim their wish lists -- and you can too.

Yes, You Can Say No to Your Kids

Even during the holidays, you don't have to give your children everything they ask for.

Open a Low-Risk College Fund

Nervous about the stock market? Consider starting with a conservative investment or spreading out your contributions over time.

Misconceptions About Investing

Surprise! Even your young adults don't know everything, and they could use guidance on when and where to invest -- especially in these tough times.

Cash Advantages

Kids and credit cards don't mix. They need to learn how to handle cold, hard cash first.

Putting Santa on a Budget

If money's tight this year, these four tips will help you get your kids to cut back their wish lists and expectations.

The New Realities of Paying for College

Shrinking investment values and loan availability are forcing families to pay attention to the economics of attending college. And that's a good thing.