I'm often asked at what age it makes sense to start talking about money with kids. My response is always as early as possible.
While it may seem premature, I figure that if your child is perched in a shopping cart, taking in all of the consumerism around them, why not think out loud about your spending decisions instead of making baby talk?
I don't think my daughter was quite three when she quizzed me on wants and needs while shopping. She was right. I didn't really need that new kitchen gadget.
Now Elmo is getting into the financial planning business with a series of money-themed videos called "For me, for you, for later," a partnership with the Sesame Workshop and PNC Bank. Anyone with a toddler knows that if there's someone who can get the ear of a 2-year-old, it's that furry red monster.
There are several videos that cover concepts such as how people get money, how to make smart spending choices, and why it's important to save and to help others.
In addition to favorite Sesame Street characters, the videos feature Beth Kobliner, author of one of the first books for young adults about money called "Get a Financial Life." She was also recently appointed to the President's Advisory Council on Financial Capability, which is working to end financial illiteracy.
The campaign to help kids learn early financial skills includes guides for parents and teachers. All materials are also available in Spanish.
I was impressed, but I'll leave it to my pint-sized critics at home to give me a full report once we watch them.
