As if parenting wasn’t difficult enough, one aspect to it that you never want to happen is experiencing a spoiled child. When you see children that are spoiled, it’s no fault of their own, but rather the way they were brought up and raised in the formative years. The good news is that it’s fairly easy to keep your child from becoming corrupted! Here are some tips to prevent a spoiled kid:

1. Allowance Done Right

Commit to a weekly or monthly allowance for your child based on their age and responsibilities. This money however, should not be given out based on which chores are done and how well they are completed. Instead, think of it as a “practice salary” to teach your children how to save and spend their money wisely. Allowance can be increased as they get older and take on more responsibilities.

2. Piggy Banks

Rather than a single piggy bank to store the entirety of your child’s money, try three different ones labeled, “spend, save and give.” This is a great way to help your children track their finances, and save/spend wisely. Make sure these banks are clear containers as well, so they can get a good visual of how much is in each jar.

3. Want vs. Need

Don’t completely discourage your child from spending their money, because that’s not a feasible way to live. You want to allow for a bit of impulse buying, but also teach them the difference between wants and needs. Another valuable lesson is teaching them where to draw the line between high quality and high dollar purchases.

4. Saving Goals

When it comes to the “save” jar, help your child set a savings goal monthly or annually. Doing this not only teaches them the value of being responsible with their money, but they will also become a more intelligent consumer in the future. As they get older, there will be a lot more important purchases that are very pricey and they’ll know exactly how to attain them.

5. Lead by Example

In one study, 64% of kids said they had no idea what their parents were giving, if anything.” Take the time to show your kid exactly what charities you’re able to donate to, and then try to get them involved too. Allow them to try finding a charity of their own that they deem worthy of a donation, and in time your child will have a giving mindset.

Written by Alicia Overby - Founder & President of Baby Elephant Ears

Alicia is wife, mother, and creator of Baby Elephant Ears. Baby Elephant Ears was created out of parental concern, not financial desire. In 2005, when their second child was an infant, he cried all the time and just couldn't seem to get comfortable.

After seeking advice and suggestion from the medical community and alternative medicine, they eventually ended up in the chiropractors office where their baby was successfully treated for asubluxation, discomfort most likely the result of the strain during labor, which was now being exacerbated by the normal lack of infant neck strength. Only proper neck, head, and back alignment would offer him relief. When they couldn't find a product to give their baby the necessary support, Alicia took matters into her own hands and crafted her own infant support pillow. The first Baby Elephant Ears was born!

For more information, visit www.babyelephantears.com.