Should you show your kids your finances? In today’s episode, Charla and Matt dive into this question and discuss why they believe the answer is no. While financial transparency is important in some areas, sharing exact numbers with kids can often do more harm than good.

Should You Show Your Kids Your Finances? 

Charla explains that children lack the life experience to fully grasp financial nuances. Without proper context, they may develop unnecessary worries, entitlement, or an unrealistic view of money. Instead of exposing them to real financial pressures, parents can teach financial literacy in a way that fosters independence and critical thinking.

One powerful tool for this is simulation-based learning. Rather than showing kids real family finances, Charla recommends giving them opportunities to make financial choices in a controlled environment. This is why she created Beyond Personal Finance, a curriculum that takes teens through a 20-year financial journey where they must make decisions about careers, housing, transportation, and more. The results? Eye-opening experiences that help them understand the consequences of financial decisions—without the real-world risks.

Matt and Charla also discuss how parents can integrate financial lessons into everyday life, from budgeting for groceries to saving for big purchases. By guiding kids through decision-making processes rather than just giving them financial figures, parents can equip them with the skills they need to be financially responsible adults.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why revealing your finances to your kids may not be the best approach

How financial simulations can teach lasting money lessons

Ways to engage kids in real-world financial decision-making

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