Money savvy kids should learn how to manage their money in a way that will show everyone what kind of a person they are. Whenever we use money we need to follow rules that help us know the difference between right and wrong. Let’s see if you are a Money Ruler.

• Money Rule #1: Honesty is the best money policy.

If you go to the movie theater and you notice that the ticket price for children under age 12 is $5 less than it is for children over age 12, but you turned 12 last month, what would you do? If you follow Money Rule #1 then you will be fair and pay the adult price. You’ve always wanted to an adult! Sometimes it comes with a price.

• Money Rule #2: Keep your money promises.

If you borrow money from another person and promise to pay it back in a week, but you know you cannot pay it back that soon, what should you do? First, only borrow money if you know you can pay it back, and know when you can pay it back. Keep your money promises so others will know you are a person they can trust.

If you make an appointment, like a piano lesson, but then realize you have to be somewhere else at the same time, what should you do? Call as soon as you realize that there is a conflict in your schedule. If you are too late to call or cancel, offer to pay for the time you have used by not showing up.

• Money Rule #3: The Golden Rule: Treat others like you would want them to treat you.

You have to ask yourself, “Would I want this done to me?” If the answer is “No” then don’t do it. If you’re at the market and you see some grapes that look really good and you just want to try a little, what would you do? Remember the golden rule. If that was your fruit you would not want someone else to take it without paying. Even a tiny bit of wrong choice is still a wrong choice. Pay for your purchases before you sample.

If you follow these money rules, people will see that you know how to make good choices. Money rules will help you become the best Money Ruler in the neighborhood. When you follow the Money Rules, everybody wins!

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