What Should You Do When Your Kids Start Being Materialistic?

A lot of teenagers are getting mugged for their stuff and some are getting into trouble because they want to buy the latest trainers or scooters.

The media is not helping either. Our children are growing up today with more games and gadgets than what we ever saw when we were growing up. 

So, it’s not our fault if we find it hard to show them that owning more stuff doesn’t mean that they’re more happy.

But that’s not an excuse to get them everything they asked for because this is not going to help them in the long run. 

So how do we teach them that having lots of stuff doesn’t make them happy? 

We show them by example, because as we all know children copy us.

So the question is, are you a materialistic person? 

Dear parents, please let’s teach our children to stop being materialistic because material things don’t instill strong virtues like delayed gratification and empathy in them.  

I know as a parent myself I want my children to have the things that I never had.

My son is amazingly frugal. This is in large part to my example. (😊)

He wasn’t like this when he was younger. But when he turns 14 all he ever wants is designer labels on everything from his t-shirts to trainers.  

So when I noticed this I had to sit him down and put him straight. 

I explained to him that things are just things and they come and go. And he shouldn’t treat stuff like God! And that he’s more than what he wears. 

Now he is 19 years old and this young man is not attached to anything and he would freely give away whatever someone asked to have. 

Ultimately, it is important for parents to teach their teenagers that what matters most is who they are, not what they own. 

Value your teen’s character, dreams and talents, so that they can see their happiness is not determined by their possessions. Teach them to pursue the greater things in life.

My final thoughts 💭 

Dear parents, let’s lead by example, your children will follow in your footsteps, repeating whatever you say or do. When you obsess about buying a new car or yet another piece of jewelry, this will lead them to think that these items determine one’s status in life. Show restraint and avoid making flashy purchases in your child’s presence.

Please don’t get me wrong, I like the idea of having stuff, too. And it’s Ok to have stuff;  just don’t let stuff have you.

That is easier said than done—there is a fine line between possessions becoming servant or master. 

I would like to encourage you to make a decision about talking to your children about the value of money and the difference between want and need. 

I hope this helps 😊❤️ 

Happy parenting ❤️❤️