The back-to-school season is a good time to reflect on the financial lessons we're teaching our kids -- whether we mean to or not. The truth is, we're already shaping their money habits just by how we live.
As military dads with young kids, we don't need to deliver lectures on compound interest or estate planning (though if you do and your 6-year-old is into it -- bravo). What we can do is lead by example and create a household environment where money isn't a mystery but instead something we talk about, plan for and use wisely, even if we're juggling deployments, permanent change-of-station (PCS) moves or unpredictable schedules.
Now, as a veteran grandpa who once walked in those boots, I can tell you the lessons you teach now -- during the diaper-changing, early-morning-chaos years -- stick with your kids far longer than you might expect. I've seen it come full circle, watching my own children become financially responsible adults (and even parents themselves).
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Lesson 1: Live Within Your Means (Yes, Even When Target Is Calling)
One of the most important lessons our kids will learn from us is how we manage our day-to-day spending. If they see us constantly swiping the card, bringing home impulse buys or upgrading gadgets every year, they'll start to see that as normal. My kids still say, "Yeah, Dad, spend less than you earn and save some to boot -- we got it." But if they see us consistently making thoughtful choices -- saving up for things, saying no to unnecessary stuff, sticking to a grocery budget -- they'll pick up on that, too.
Let them see how you plan for purchases, how you compare prices and, yes, how you say "not now" to things you can't afford. These quiet habits become powerful lessons.
Lesson 2: Teach Them to Save (Even the Tooth Fairy Money)
Saving is a muscle, and it's easier to build when you start young. Help your kids get in the habit by encouraging them to save part of any money they receive -- from birthdays, holidays or their lemonade stand empire. A clear jar works great for younger kids because they can see their savings grow. Or, yes, stop by the USAA table the next time you see us out there and pick up a piggy bank!
You can use something like a simple "spend-save-give" system: Some money goes toward something fun, some into savings and some to help others. It's simple, but it introduces important financial values early.
And while you're at it, double-check your own savings goals -- especially your emergency fund. As a military family, that fund might be the difference between calm and chaos during a PCS move or after unexpected expenses. Kids learn from what we do, not just what we say. Showing them that saving is a normal part of life is a gift that keeps on giving.
Lesson 3: Make Money a Normal Topic
Money shouldn't be a taboo subject in your household. That doesn't mean turning every dinner conversation into an economics lecture, but it does mean being open and age-appropriate when questions come up. If your child asks why you work or how much something costs, don't shy away from the conversation.
The more comfortable they are talking about money with you, the more confident they'll be managing it later. Normalize the conversation now, and you'll build financial confidence that lasts a lifetime.
The Shadow We Cast
The way we handle money today becomes the model our kids remember tomorrow. As military parents of young children, you're not just raising kids -- you're raising future adults who may face the same unpredictable life we do. And the financial lessons you teach them, on purpose or by accident, will stick with them longer than their favorite cartoon theme song.
This year, take a moment to think about the financial example you're setting. The small, everyday choices you make teach your kids how to think about money, spend wisely, save for the future and talk about their financial goals.
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