If you’re looking to think outside the box for Christmas this year, why not give your loved ones gifts that will benefit them for years to come?
Finance expert David Lester says financial savvy is the best gift you can give someone, and he shared some ideas that will help everyone achieve financial success.
Toy coins and cash register
Age: 3 – 5 years
Get them playing with money early! It’ll help them count and get them used to saving and spending money in a positive way.
Monopoly
Age: 6 – 12 years
Everyone who grew up playing Monopoly probably has a better idea how real estate works. It also helps with cash flow turn after turn.
Disney, Apple or Microsoft shares
Ages: 12 – 15 years
Buy shares for the preteens in your life in the companies they love. You can even buy one share if you contact the company directly or open a discount brokerage and buy some shares inside the account for as little as $9.99. Let them watch the shares trade up and down. Collect dividends and get them accustomed to how the stock market, business and capitalism work while they’re young.
Money books
Age: 15 – 80 years old
Everyone can learn more about money with a financial literacy book. Many money books (like From Middle Class to Millionaire written by David) actually help you plan your life, decide what you want, put a cost towards it and budget. They are quick reads and help you crystallize your future on paper.
Bitcoins
Age: 18 – 25 years
Download a bitcoin wallet and buy them some bitcoins. Blockchain and crypto currency will most likely be the future and shedding some light on this new form of currency will sling shot your kids into the future. The wallet is free and bitcoins are accepted at some stores and coffee shops.
