Fair doesn’t always mean equal; it means explained. If you’ve got more than one child, how to teach kids about money gets easier when the structure is the same and the sliders—amounts and responsibilities—adjust to the child.
Use one shared map (Save/Spend/Share/Give), one payday for everyone, and one visible goal area with separate charts. The sameness reduces “why does he get” arguments. Then customize where it makes sense: older kids can handle bigger extra-earn jobs and larger goals; younger kids get shorter goals and smaller paid tasks. Explain the “why” once and stick to it. Consistency builds trust.
When siblings want to pool money for a shared goal (a game both will use), make a mini contract: how much each contributes, what happens if one changes their mind, and where the item lives. Write it down and celebrate when they finish. They’re learning partnership—a money skill most adults navigate poorly.
If comparison creeps in, return to your family’s money pillars. “Everyone plans, everyone waits, everyone gives. The numbers are different because the jobs and ages are different.” Then look for a moment to praise each child’s unique progress—one might stick to a savings streak; the other might choose a thoughtful Give. Kids thrive when they’re seen for their effort, not someone else’s numbers.
