Teaching children to save money starting when they are small is easy. Every child learns very quickly that money buys things they want. They already know the value of money, money concepts are taught in school, and the basic mathematics involved. Here a 7 simple tips to help you get them saving and investing.

1. 3 things to do with money. They can let it sit in their wallets and purses, spend it, or save it and watch it multiply. Drive to different parts of your city with your children and point out different living conditions. Some spend everything and never get ahead. Others let their money sit idle and it never increases. But the wealthy know how to spend what they need and then save and invest the rest.

2. Help your children set goals. Ask your children what they want when they grow up? Every child wants to be someone like a doctor or a fireman but what do they want? How do they want to live? Do they want to be poor or rich? Help them set some goals early and explain that proper saving and investing is a huge part of getting what they want.

3. Help put goals into action. Develop a rough financial plan with them. This is great fun and you will learn a lot by teaching them. If you have a financial planner you could introduce them to your children. This will help your kids see that saving and investing is serious business.

4. Be frugal. If you have not already, read the book "Millionaire Next Door." This really opened my eyes to the world of the rich. People become rich through saving and investing wisely, not by earning a great deal of money. The typical millionaire in America has appreciated assets from years of careful investing and saving. Show your children how a frugal budget allows you to save more.

5. Open savings accounts early. Take your children to the bank as soon as they understand basic money principles. Open savings accounts in their names and go over the statements with them as they come.

6. Give your children choices. A big birthday party, for example, is expensive. What if your children would be just as happy with cake, ice cream and some games with their friends? Say something like, "A big party like we had last year cost $200.00. What if I put $185.00 in your savings account and just spent $15.00 this year?" Some of your children will still want the big party but you might be surprised to learn that some will be listening to you and will choose the savings option.

7. Time deposits. Since your children will not be touching the money anytime soon, take advantage of time deposits for higher interest. This will give the savings a boost and help you in teaching children to save money.

Teaching children to save money should be fun. Let them know this is for their future because you love them. You will enjoy this time together.