Money-Smart Kids: Facts, Questions & Conversation Starters

Today's children are growing up in a world where financial information is available instantly. Whether they're asking AI a question, scrolling through social media, or watching videos from financial influencers, money advice is often a click away. Recent research found that 73% of Canadian students use generative AI for schoolwork, while nearly half report a decline in critical-thinking skills. At the same time, 82% of Canadians aged 18 to 24 use investment advice they found on social media.¹ ²

While these tools can spark interest in saving and investing, they don't always provide the full picture. A 30-second video may promote a trending stock or cryptocurrency without explaining the risks involved. AI-generated answers can sound convincing even when they're incomplete or lack context.

Start the Conversation

Parents remain one of the most influential sources of learning. Simple conversations today can help children evaluate information, ask better questions, and build lifelong money habits. Try asking:

• What's something you want to buy that might be worth saving up for?
• How do you decide whether financial advice online is trustworthy?
• Do you think it's better to save for something or buy it right away? Why?
• What's something you think is worth paying more for? Why?
• If you received $100 today, would you spend it, save it, or invest it? Why?

Bring Them to the Table

Consider inviting your child or young adult to a meeting with your financial advisor. These conversations can make financial planning more approachable and encourage questions, for example:

• What's the difference between saving and investing?
• What is compound growth and why does it matter?
• If I invested $100 every month, how much would that become at age 65?
• How do people prepare for major goals like education, buying a home, or retirement?

Talk to your financial advisor about strategies to help build confidence across generations.

Sources ¹ KPMG in Canada (2025). Generative AI Boom Among Canadian Students Raises Dilemmas. ² Canadian Securities Administrators, cited by The Canadian Press (2025).

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