» $1 = lifelong lesson

"Here's an easy way to explain finances to kids. It only takes four quarters. The lesson is simple, but gives kids a way to better understand the value of a dollar and money management in general. "

» Be a smart money model

Are you teaching your children to pinch pennies or make mistakes? Ask yourself: Do my kids see me save? Do they see me shop more at outlet malls and discount centers or high-end boutiques?

» Choices - College expenses vs. retirement savings

"If you drain your finances to pay your kids' college expenses, you may lose consciousness from a money standpoint. You'll be struggling in retirement and unable to help anyone in the future. "

» College costs - Tips for lightening the load

"Search all available scholarships and financial aid options. Even small amounts help. In addition to academic and athletic scholarships (check all sports), consider talents, community trusts, and affiliations with special groups. "

» College students and credit cards

The current credit card law includes a provision that parents of those under 21 must agree to take responsibility for their kids' credit cards unless the young applicants can show they have income to qualify.

» Family finances

"National Family Literacy Day is in November. Why not extend it to financial family literacy with the ideas below, which can also work for single people and couples without children. "

» Money doesn't grow on trees

"Simple, age-appropriate ways to help your children learn about money and how to use it. Preschool-age: Even kids as young as 5 can learn what money is - literally. "

» Play money - Not!

"Teaching kids about money is serious business. If you've ever said, ""Turn out the lights. We don't have money to burn!"" you're probably a typical parent who thinks the statement actually teaches your kids about money. "

» Should Johnny have a summer job? NEW!

"With summer months approaching, teens - and their parents - will be looking for ways to fill the youngsters' days until fall. "

» That little bundle of joy - both priceless and pricey

"Tips to prepare for baby. If you're expecting, expect a quarter-million-dollar baby. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that a family will spend an average of $11,000 to $23,000 per year for the first 17 years of a child's life. "

» The bank of Mom & Dad

"Grown children often look to their parents for financial assistance during early adult years. The goal should not be to support the children forever, but rather to get them through a tough time and help them to develop positive financial behavior. "