The Money Lessons Jewish Parents Teach Their Kids

Welcome back, Money Mentors!

You’ve probably heard the stereotype that Jewish people are “good with money.” But have you ever wondered why?

As someone who was raised around a lot of Jewish kids, I can tell you it’s not magic or genetics. It’s education — starting from childhood.

Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on the financial wisdom passed down through generations of Jewish families. These are lessons most schools completely ignore, but that set kids up for lifelong financial success.

The Surprising Origins of Jewish Financial Education

Growing up, I thought every kid learned about money the way I did. It wasn’t until adulthood that I realized how unique my upbringing was.

The roots of this tradition go deep — all the way back to ancient religious texts. The Torah, Judaism’s holiest book, actually commands parents to teach their children how to make a living.

As Barl Solomon explains in a video:

This 3000-year-old wisdom creates a powerful cultural emphasis on financial education that’s missing in many other communities.

BREAK IT DOWN

5 Key Money Lessons Jewish Parents Teach Their Kids

1. Aim high in your career

From a young age, Jewish kids are encouraged to pursue high-earning professions. As Solomon shares:

This isn’t about greed — it’s about creating stability for your family and community.

2. Think big and work hard

Jewish parents instill a powerful growth mindset in their children. Solomon references a popular song lyric that captures this mentality:

3. Understand the importance of money

While many cultures shy away from discussing money with kids, Jewish families tackle it head-on. Children learn that money isn’t everything, but it is an important tool for taking care of yourself and others.

4. Prioritize financial stability

The high costs of maintaining cultural and religious practices (like buying kosher food) mean Jewish families emphasize the importance of financial planning.

5. Give back to your community

Charity is a core value in Judaism. Kids learn that making money isn’t just about personal wealth, but about having the means to support others.

Why These Lessons Matter (Even If You’re Not Jewish)

The financial education gap in our school system is leaving an entire generation unprepared. A 2022 FINRA study found that 66% of Americans couldn’t pass a basic financial literacy test.

By adopting some of these time-tested strategies, parents of any background can set their children up for greater financial success.

TIME FOR ACTION

1. Have open conversations about finances, even with young children.

2. Encourage ambitious career goals and a strong work ethic.

3. Teach the basics of budgeting, saving, and charitable giving.

4. Lead by example in your own financial habits.

5. Emphasize that money is a tool for security and helping others, not just buying things.

Financial education is too important to leave to chance. By intentionally teaching our children about money from a young age, we can break cycles of poverty and create generational wealth and stability.

What financial lessons do you wish you had learned as a child? Share your thoughts with us!

Until next time, keep building those money smarts!

Kamil Banc
MINI M🟡NEY MENTOR