10 vs. 15: two very different approaches to money

When you talk about money with an 8-10 year old and a 15-16 year old, you quickly realize that it's not at all the same approach. The way they manage money, their priorities and even their approach to spending are completely different. And that's normal - they're not living the same reality.

Younger people: money is for immediate pleasure

At the age of 8 or 10, money is mostly used to please oneself. A pack of candy, a toy or a shiny gadget is the number one goal. No real thought behind it, just the desire of the moment. They don't think about saving or planning. For them, money is there to be spent right away.

At this age, they're hyper-influenced by what they see around them: TV commercials, friends who have this or that toy, or even eye-catching shop windows. It's all very spontaneous and quite innocent. They don't question the value of what they're buying, it's just something they fall in love with.

Parents, the first guides
So, parents have a super-important role to play. Rather than leaving them money without explanation, it's a good idea to take the opportunity to gently teach them what it's all about. For example, suggesting that they choose between several small items or save up for something bigger can already give them a little idea of what it's like to make choices.

And then, to keep it motivating, you can make it fun. Like a transparent piggy bank to see the savings grow, or a challenge to save a little each week. It's not budget management yet, but it's planting seeds.

Teenagers: between autonomy and social influence

When you're 15 or 16, your perspective changes completely. Money isn't just for buying candy anymore. It's often for more meaningful things: a new phone, a night out with the boys, or even saving for a big project. They start to understand that there's a difference between "I really need it" and "I just want it".

But influence remains enormous, especially with social networks dictating a lot of trends. Brands, influencers, friends... All that weighs in the balance. Even if they know that some product placements are a bit forced, the pressure is on not to lag behind. Sometimes this leads them to make impulsive choices just to fit in with the group.

Managing freedom without losing control
Teenagers understandably want to manage their own money. But giving them too much autonomy at once can quickly lead to mistakes. The idea is to give them a sense of responsibility without leaving everything to them. For example, setting a monthly budget for their personal expenses, while letting them make a few mistakes, is a good way to teach them.

Rather than judge their choices, it's better to discuss them afterwards. Why this purchase? Was it really worth it? Without being moralistic, just to get them thinking. It helps develop their critical thinking skills without making them feel like they're being monitored.

Two ages, two visions, but the same apprenticeship

Basically, between the ages of 10 and 15, the way we look at money changes enormously. In the beginning, it's light, spontaneous, no brainer. Then it becomes more complex, with more influences and more choices.

For parents, the challenge is to adapt to this evolution. At 10, we supervise, explain and set an example. At 15, we advise more than we impose, leaving them a little room to experiment and make mistakes.

The important thing is to support without restricting. To learn progressively, while remaining open to dialogue. Because in the end, whether it's a packet of sweets or a new telephone, it's all these little experiences that forge their relationship with money.