If you don't talk to your kids about money, who will? Children don't always understand money, where it comes from and what it does. Yet all kids have wants and needs that involve money. Take the opportunities, when your children say, "I want this toy," or "I need this pair of jeans," to discuss the differences between want and need.

Fortunately, kids are curious about money and are anxious to talk and learn about it. Here are some general tips for money TALKS:

Talk to your kids about money as early as possible. Let them know that the coins and bills in your pocket have value and that value is a means of exchange to get what you want.

Act casually. Talking about money should be no different than talking about sports or the weather.

Leave money in its proper place. Don't let it dominate your personal value system.

Know you audience. Direct your conversations about money to your child's age and interest.

Sprinkle questions throughout your conversation and listen carefully to the answers. Everyone loves attention. Your questions and attentive listening give your children a sense of acceptance and deepen your family bond.