Materialism In Childhood
Tags: Parenting, Children, Parenting Advice, Childhood, Parents

1.) Reason with kids that everyone does not possess everything

A fair amount of ‘No’ is required. And a little patience. Sprinkled with some reasonings. But she has. Why can’t I? A question, thrown at me a lot of times. My daughter. So, I ask her, does she have this? No, right? So there will always be things which you will have and others won't and the other way. And again, when you go to her place or she comes down, you will be playing with the same things!

Allot a small amount of money and ask them to pick the best option. Avoiding taking them to supermarkets would not resolve the purpose. It will only delay the process which magnifies later. That teaches them to check the price of different products. Evaluating the options and arriving at the best decision. You would also need to invest some time in helping the kid out.

Avoid rewarding for things they are supposed to do. Electric scooter for good grades? Remember? That teaches them that things are transactional. Never be tempted to give away a carrot for something a child is responsible for. It makes him/her look for something in return for every little act. That later transcends from small things to relationships.

2.) Involve them in financial discussions. Encourage them in making better choices.

A daily allowance. Makes saving a habit. And a consciousness that spending takes a little time as compared to saving. It also teaches them to wait things out, somewhere enhancing the joy of getting something.

You can talk finance with them in light doses. I would move around in a pensive mood in front of my daughter just to arise her curiosity. And once she falls into the trap and comes over to ask me, I would casually tell her that I am unable to decide between two options. Could she help? And she would sit by me and give her inputs. That would make her feel important and intelligent. She would ask questions like what does each cost, what does each do? and then I would tell her about reviews and delivery cost. The little mind would be lost in addition. But she would come to a conclusion.

As she grew up, she did that in her own purchases. She would weigh the options before making a decision.

But, be aware not to burden them with your financial difficulties. That might have an unwanted contrast effect, where they consider any expense as unnecessary. That would not be a healthy trait to developed in a kid.

3.) Teaching them the concept of profit and marketing.

Teach them basic accounting. Keeping tab of money instills a financial responsibility in children.

The wants and needs have to be clearly identified.

Might sound trivial but the visual appeal of the advertisements is the major reason for immense materialism in children. Teaching them the connection between purchasing, profits, business, and marketing would help them understand the motives behind the creation of such glamorous advertisements. Making them see healthy and unhealthy also helps in handling demands for the newest cereals or the latest chocolates.

4.) Make them give.

My daughter for many days felt that it is the ‘card’ that you need to get money or purchase anything you want. Today's children feel that everything is accessible.

They need to be shown and told about children who do not even the basic things. They need to be made aware of the things they have and that they should be grateful for the same. Sharing and giving instill a sense of gratitude for having.