When my son was 15 I wanted him to learn how to buy and sell stocks on his own by researching companies and following the market.

I told him that I would match him every dollar he invested but if he ever pulled the money out he would have to give me back what I put in. As added incentive, I told him he could keep any gains, even off my portion. He agreed.

I explained to my husband that this was a life lesson and even if he lost money, I would rather he lose thousands now rather than millions later in life. Learning to take calculated risks is part of being financially intelligent.

This was one of the best things I could have done for him. He’s 18 now and his knowledge as far as investing rivals any adult I know. He’s made some good and bad choices, but overall he’s way up.

Teaching kids to be financially intelligent will pay you dividends for years to come.

Watch the full video on my YouTube channel!