If you’re like us, you probably feel like you don’t know as much about money as you should. And you might feel even less qualified to help your children understand finances. For Financial Literacy Month this April, here are a few basics you can pass to the kids (and make sure you’ve got down pat).

Saving for a goal. You don’t have to wait for money to appear or spend it randomly – you can control what you spend, and take steps to help yourself spend on what you *really* want in the long-term.
Want vs. need. Start with food vs. toys, then step it up to spending $20 vs. $100 on jeans. Sometimes we need to remind ourselves of this…
How credit works. The concept of getting something now and paying the cost later is pretty key. And credit can still be mysterious into adulthood – DYK closing a credit card can hurt your credit score?
Saving sooner helps you later. The earlier you start putting money into savings or retirement funds (if you’re really committed, set up automatic transfer), the more your future self will thank you.
Opportunity cost. Would you rather buy this toy now, or get those shoes you wanted later?

Turns out the basics are pretty much the essentials. Keep that savings account happy, watch your credit card spending, don’t splurge too often (and watch out for identity theft) – hopefully, you’re feeling a little more money-savvy. 💸

Bonus: Did you know being a member of a credit union can save an individual more than $325 in fees, interest and other service charges? Learn more here.