Debt education for children is an essential component of financial literacy. Parents play a critical role in instilling this information in their children. In today's world, where obtaining a loan is simple, educating children about the dangers of debt accumulation and how to handle it responsibly is critical.

The first stage in teaching kids about debt is to define it. An individual's debt is cash borrowed that has to be repaid, typically with interest. Children must comprehend that taking out money is not always a bad thing but that there are also costs that must be borne eventually.

PHOTO | COURTESY mother and daughter

Parents can begin by explaining the idea of debt using everyday examples. When a family acquires a vehicle or a house, for example, a loan is obtained that has to be repaid over a while. Whenever parents utilize a credit card, they take the money they must repay with interest.

 Parents can teach their children about different kinds of loans, such as unsecured and secured loans, debit and credit cards, and student loans, once they grasp the concept of debt. Children should understand that certain loans have lower interest rates than others, making them more costly to repay. It is also critical to clarify the consequences of failing to repay the financial obligation on time, such as a drop in credit score.

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PHOTO | COURTESY father and daughter

Budgeting and sensible money management should also be taught to children by their parents. Children must learn that living within their means is the best way to prevent accumulating debt. They ought to discover how to manage their income and expenditures, save money, and avoid wasting money. Parents may also show their children the value of saving for unexpected expenses to prevent debt. 

 Another critical element of educating kids about debt involves clarifying the advantages and disadvantages when using credit cards. Credit cards are a type of debt, and they should be used carefully by children. They should understand that while credit cards provide convenience, they also carry high-interest fees and interest rates if not settled on time. Parents can also participate.