Just because something looks expensive, doesn't mean it represents the best value. Remind them that if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. They usually have a good youth program that encourages savings and reinforces what you teach at home about money. Alert children to the dangers of borrowing and paying interest. Charge interest on small loans you make to them so they will learn quickly how expensive it is to rent someone else's money.
Credit is all about, renting another's money for a specified period of time.
Explain also how and when you plan to pay for this and other charges children have observed. Many students in that group also reported having to cut back on classes to fit in a part-time job just to pay for their credit card purchases. Using a calendar, establish a regular schedule for a family discussion about finances. This is especially helpful to younger children. Discussion topics should include the difference between cash, checks and credit cards and also wise spending, how to avoid the use of credit and the advantages of savings and investments growth.