When my oldest son turned six, he realized that the onslaught of Lego kits he'd received (and built in a day) for Christmas and then for his February birthday had ended, and he had little hope of getting another Lego kit before the next December, which of course was an eternity to a six-year-old. So he began asking for jobs to do to earn money. We paid him for some jobs that amounted to approximately $3 per week, and we taught him to give 10% to the church and to save 10% in a bank account, leaving the remaining 80% for spending money. In this way, he could save up spending money for a $20 Lego kit pretty close to every other month. The problem was, money burned a hole in his pocket. Every time he got a dollar, he wanted to buy candy or go to the dollar store. It was very difficult for him to learn to save money for any length of time.
Has anyone else had this problem with their kids? I'm pretty sure I'm not alone!
This past month we were given the wonderful opportunity to review the book Can't-Wait Willow by Christy Ziglar. I haven't been signing up for many story-books lately, as my youngest has started reading chapter books, but the message of this book was very relevant for him, and it probably wouldn't hurt my teenagers to read it through a few times! Recognize the author's last name? Yes, she is the niece of motivational speaker Zig Ziglar, and she has also helped to develop a financial literacy program for 1st- and 2nd-graders. Can't-Wait Willow does a wonderful job of showing kids that sometimes it is worth saying "no" to some small things that are good, so that they can later say "yes" to something great!
In this age of instant gratification and a "me" generation that wants everything handed to them on a silver platter, I highly recommend this delightful book for anyone with kids ages 2-8. It would make a fantastic Christmas gift.
Want more good news? I have a free copy of Can't-Wait Willow to give away on my blog! Just leave a comment here or on my Facebook page, and I'll draw a random winner on Wednesday, November 13!
By the way, my teens are much better at saving their money these days. If you are teaching a little one who can't seem to save, keep at it. Financial training does pay off over time, and it is one of the best gifts you can give your children!
The Shine Bright Kids series provides children and their families with a relevant framework to help instill solid values and teach the importance of making good choices. The series teaches principles including: using good judgment, taking responsibility, self-control, having a positive attitude, and demonstrating perseverance. Check out their website at www.ShineBrightKids.com for free reward charts, activities and other parenting resources.
About the Author:
Christy Ziglar, financial planner, mother of twins and niece of legendary motivator and the world’s original optimist, Zig Ziglar, is bringing the same timeless wisdom and ageless advice to an entirely new, younger audience through her new Shine Bright Kids picture book series.Christy is available for Q&A, author interviews, Skype calls, etc.!
The first book in the series: Can't-Wait Willow!
Willow is so excited that the Over-the-Top Circus has finally come to town! The only problem is, that when left to her own devices, she can’t say “no” to some good things. On the way to the show, she is distracted by enticing treats and fun that she just can’t turn down. Willow arrives late and is sad to find that, not only has she has run out of time, but money, and she won’t be able to enjoy the pink cotton candy she’s been dreaming of. Willow is given valuable advice and a second chance and is ultimately taught the lesson that sometimes in life you have to say “no” to good things to end up with something great!
Find Can't-Wait Willow! at Barnes & Noble and other fine retailers, as well as http://www.idealsbooks.com
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Thank you everyone for entering the giveaway! (All the entries were on Facebook this time.) Congratulations to Betsy for winning the giveaway!
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