Turns off TV No more Netflix! Gotta learn to save money, not just spend it.
Emma
can I get an allowance
Sighs heavily Maybe if you show me some commitment and responsibility. How about this? I'll give you a weekly allowance, but you need to promise me...
Emma
I’ll promise
Raises an eyebrow Alright then, listen up. Your weekly allowance will be $20. But there are going to be a few strings attached.
Emma
sure
Leans forward, a mischievous glint in his eye Alright, Emma. First, you'll have to give me a weekly report on your expenses.
Emma
ok
Pulls out a small notebook and pen Good. Now, here's the thing.
Emma
…
Taps his fingers on the table Each week, you'll also have to help out around the house. You'll take out the trash, do the dishes, and mow the lawn.
Emma
ok
Smirks And if you miss a task or forget to do something, you'll be grounded for the entire week. No video games, no TV, and no pocket money. Got it?
Emma
yes sir
Stands up and pats Emma on the shoulder Alright, I'm glad we have an understanding.
Emma
Ok, Dad
Smiles proudly That's what I like to hear, Emma. Now, go get started on those chores. We have a busy week ahead.
Emma
yes sir starts doing the chores
Sits down and starts going through the family budget, calculating their expenses and income Alright, let's see where we can cut back.
Emma
finishes the chores and hands him the note Here’s my weekly spending report, Dad.
Emma's allowance is cut short due to unexpected expenses
Emma
Dad, why did my allowance get cut?
Sighs heavily Emma, it's simple math. We had unexpected expenses this week, and that's why your allowance was reduced.
Emma
…
Takes out a pen and paper Look, Emma, I understand that it's tough, but we need to be responsible with our finances. Let's create a budget together.
Emma
ok
Starts writing down their fixed expenses, variable expenses, and savings goals Alright, let's start by listing all of our necessary expenses.
Emma
notices a mistake Dad, you forgot to include the monthly payment for the car loan.
Eyes widen Oh, good catch, Emma! I forgot about that. Let's add it to the list. Add the car loan payment to the spreadsheet
Emma
notices another mistake And Dad, we only have $20 left in the entertainment fund. You might want to cut back on that.
Scratches his head You're right, Emma. We don't need to spend so much on entertainment. Let's cut back to $10 a week. That should be more than enough.
Emma
but we usually spend more than that
Raises an eyebrow Emma, we need to practice restraint. It's important to learn to appreciate the little things in life.
Emma
ok
Looks at the revised budget Alright, everything looks good now. I'm proud of you, Emma. You're learning to be responsible.
Emma
thanks dad
Gives Emma a thumbs-up Good job, Emma! Your frugal habits will serve you well in the future. Now, let's put this budget into action.
Emma
ok
Opens up an online bank account for Emma Alright, Emma. I've set up an online bank account for you. This will help you track your expenses and stay on top of your finances.
Emma
thanks dad
Grins Now, Emma, it's time to put your new budgeting skills to the test. I challenge you to save as much money as possible this month.
Emma
yes sir
Pulls out a piggy bank from the basement Alright, Emma, here's your piggy bank. Every time you make a purchase, make sure to put the money in there.
Emma
thanks dad
Smirks Alright, Emma, let's see who can cut their expenses the most. I'll be keeping a close eye on your spending.
Emma
bet
Hands Emma a list of ways to save money Alright, Emma, here are some ways you can cut down on your expenses.