Let’s talk about a really simple way to stop your kids from begging you for toys when shopping so you can teach them about money.

Hi, I’m Renee, and I help single moms who are tired of being stressed out living from one paycheck to the next, so they can enjoy quality time with their children, without having to reach out to friends or family about their money challenges or financial advice.

As a parent of young children, I know how difficult it can be to say no to them when they’re begging for toys at the store. I want to talk about a really simple way to stop them from begging without having to resort to punishment or bribery. So stay tuned and let me show you how it’s done.

This used to be so hard for me until I learned how to successfully navigate this. It really relieved the pressure and sad feelings of not being able to afford something they really wanted.

Before you go shopping

Talk with your kids about money. Let them know that you as the parent can’t have everything you want and the same is true for them.

It’s a good idea to talk about needs and wants with them. Ask them what they need to live. These things are needs. Then ask them what some of their wants are. It’s fun to be able to share your wants with them as well.

Help them understand the importance of saving money. Ask them if they think saving money is easy.

Give them the TEST

A fun way to test their savings ability is to give them the marshmallow test. Give them 5 marshmallows and let them know that if they wait 1/2 hour without eating them, they can have 5 more marshmallows. If they eat the 5 marshmallows before the timer goes off, they will not get more marshmallows.

Let them know that this can be as difficult as saving money.

Make a Plan

Discuss your plan before going to the store if they can or cannot buy a toy. If they can buy a toy, how much money are they bringing with them to buy a toy? Let them know that you both have to stay within budget while shopping.

Inform them you are bringing money for the things you need to buy and they need to bring money for the things they plan on buying.

Ask them, how much money do you have to buy a toy? Do you know what toy you are going to buy? Let them know, they are going to the store to create a lot of wants and they are going to see a lot of toys that are expensive. This will lead to frustration.

Tell them you don’t like being frustrated and ask them if they do. Ask them what they think is a good plan.

When you Go

Imagine yourself down the toy aisle. There are going to be so many cool toys. Many that are going to be more expensive that what they have money for.

When they see something they like, ask them how much it costs. Then ask them how much they have. Let them come to the conclusion that they don’t have enough money.

This is a great opportunity to let them know they need to save money for the more expensive items. If they are frustrated, that’s normal. Let them know you can relate.

They now have a choice to make. Either they can buy something less expensive now, or save their money to buy a toy they really want. It will be interesting to see their choice.

Their choices are going to be based on their values along with how they see you make decisions.