Teaching children to manage money wisely is an important life skill. Begin early by giving an allowance to your child. Make it known, however, that this money may not be used to freely spend as he chooses. Education.com suggests having four banks instead of one: a spending bank for money to be spent at any time, a saving bank to save for larger purchases or emergencies, an investment bank so that the money will multiply, and a giving bank for money that will be used to help others. Label each container used for the banks and help your child divide his money when he receives it. Over time, discuss how the child wants to use the money to help others. Periodically invest the money set aside for that purpose, and and let your child help decide where to place it.
Also, be a good example. Your child will be watching you to see how you manage your money, and whether or not you practice what you preach.
Teaching children not to talk to strangers is only one part of teaching them street smarts. Make sure your child knows who he can go to in case of an emergency when away from home, such as a police officer or teacher. Dialing 911 is a basic skill that a young child can learn as soon as he is able to recognize numbers. Always be sure to balance the talk of dangers with a positive message that most people are good and want to help.
Teach basic safety measures as you do activities, such as waiting for "walk" signals at intersections, and wearing safety gear while boating or using tools,
Decision making for kids can be overwhelming. With multiple options available in every area of life, it is hard to know which choice is the best. Begin teaching your child how to make choices while they are young. A preschool child can be given the option of what he would like for lunch. Make it easy for him by only offering two choices.
As a child gets older, give her more freedom in choosing clothing, vacation locations and extracurricular activities. Of course, you as the parent have the final authority. However, walking through decision making with your child can teach her important lessons, such as how her choices can affect others.
Teaching a child responsibility can be a difficult task. Start teaching a child responsibility by giving her specific chores, such as cleaning up a play space or her bedroom, or helping to clear the dinner table.
A major tool for this job is to model it yourself. Show your child how to follow through with commitments by following through on them yourself. Also, many parents find it hard to sit back and watch a child suffer the consequences of not being responsible. However, always bailing the child out of tough situations will keep them dependent on others and slow the development of responsibility.