Raising Well-Rounded Children in Today’s World
By Caryn Fields on May 1, 2024
I may not have children of my own yet, however, raising well-rounded children matters to a lot of us too! Parents, grandparents, aunts/uncles, teachers, and others are all worried about the world in which the younger generations are growing up – how they grow up, the challenges they face and how they will turn out. The internet. All the devices. Our environment. Bullying. And more. The worry only increases as wealth increases. It is not just about money, but the values being passed down. We all have a duty to ensure we are raising well-rounded children, together, as a community. So how do we do that? Here are three tips that I have learned:
1.It is never too early.
Start young and help your children develop a healthy relationship with money from the start. If you are not talking to your children, others are. When you talk to your kids about money, they probably already know much of what you are going to say. It is not telling them you are wealthy, but what that means. Be open with what you have and what they may expect. Teach them to recognize their privilege, appreciate it and not feel bad about it. Wealth is merely an amplifier of the morals and values you are already teaching your children.
2. Lead by Example
You have the opportunity to build the lens in which your child sees the world. Be open, honest, and live out your values. Show your children the hard work you put into earning money, how grateful you are and how you can make an impact. Give and teach them how to give. Remember, they are soaking everything in! (You may want to ensure you and your spouse are on the same page!) Teach them appreciation, how to be a good steward and the responsibility they have in the community.
3.Explore Teachable Moments.
Don’t just give your children everything they want! Parents naturally want to give their children more than they had growing up. Instead, show them the value of hard work and what a dollar can do. Perhaps set chores where they can earn money and feel a valuable part of the family. Then they can learn what to do with the money they have. What happens when you spend money? It is gone. What happens when you save/invest? It works for you. What happens with you give? You make a difference.
What next? I would suggest, as Sarah Zvekan wrote about in an earlier blog titled ‘The Family Torch’, to write a family mission statement. Communicate your values, mission, and vision. Many times, families agree on their mission, it is just how you live out those values. You got this! And if you need a little help or support, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Synergy team. The future is in your child’s hands!
