Reality shows geared towards teenagers sometimes show extreme wealth.
Some of these shows include the once popular Laguna Beach.
This show depicted teenagers living the life of luxury in Southern California.
What the television series did not show viewers were part-time jobs held by the actors.
Since young viewers did not see the actors working for their expensive apparel and technology, they were to assume their parents provided it.
Many teenagers living in actual reality believe this is how life should be.
Why bother working for money when your parents can buy things for you? It is imperative that teens learn the importance of working and saving their money.
When they start living on their own, they may have a rude awakening.
Products are very expensive, and so is the cost of living on your own.
In order for teens to understand money-saving habits, they must learn at an early age.
In the age of technology, people may not think that learning to balance a checkbook is important.
Most banks now have online banking accounts that let users check their statements right on the computer.
While this is convenient for many, technology is not always reliable.
Teenagers need to be able to keep track of their records in case the bank makes a mistake.
It also helps teens save money; they can see what they spend money on the most.
Instead of buying children whatever they want, have them start a savings account.
If there is a new toy or phone being released, teach them that they can have it when they can afford it.
Giving kids and teens a goal to look forward to makes it even more rewarding when they can buy it.
Growing up in an area where parents gave their teens expensive cars to drive was difficult.
I wanted one of those cars so bad, but instead I drove around a funny, older car.
When I saved up enough money to buy a newer car, it was so much sweeter driving it around.
I felt like I had accomplished something since I bought it myself.
Teens need to learn they cannot be handed things in their life.
Saving their money is a step towards learning future lessons.
For now, teens can save money a few different ways.
Opening a savings account at a bank is a step towards learning to handle finances.
Teenagers can search for a part-time job.
They will slowly start to build their account and see that hard work pays off.
Part-time jobs also help prepare them for jobs in the future.
Staying on the forefront of fashion is important to many teenagers.
Instead of spending all of their money on new clothes each season, try swapping with a friend.
This gives their wardrobe a new look without breaking the bank.
Teenagers need to start learning now that their parents cannot provide them with everything in the future.
Saving their money now is a smart way to learn about finances for their future.