Online shopping has allowed kids and teens alike to have access to whatever they desire. However, we all know that most times, it is not their money that they are spending. In this manner, it is easy to fall into a life-simulation game with unlimited money mod. Unless you do, you might want to take some advice and rear your kids for the better.

At first, this may seem like overstepping in your kid’s business. Still, by setting limits and being knowledgeable, you will be good to go. Remember that you are doing this for them. No conventional schools will teach your kids to be money-smart, so it is best to take the leap and guide them yourself.

1. Check for legitimacy

There are many good things to be said about e-commerce, but just like anything else it also has its fair share of shortcomings.

For one, the remoteness of transactions provides a haven for scammers and counterfeiters. Most times these groups of people will sell products for cheaper, which is technically favorable. But it is only applicable if you are getting quality products. However, this is usually not the case.

A great rule of thumb to follow so as not to fall into this trap is to establish an estimate of how much a product is usually sold. You can do this by checking different online stores and comparing prices. If it is too good to be true, then run. 

Some independent sellers may sell for less, but make sure to check the reviews before making any transactions. It may take some time, but you can increase your chances of striking the best deal.

If you do not want to go through all these troubles, then there is a fool-proof way that you can take. Only shop on official online stores. This way you can guarantee that you are in good hands. Following this method also lessens your worries by offering return policies.

2. Know about online shopping vouchers and discount codes

It is almost impossible to haggle in online stores, but so is in malls. Nonetheless, there are few tricks in online shopping to pay less than what is on the price tag. 

Online shopping platforms offer sales from time to time. Knowing when to shop is a great way to save some money. On top of that, being knowledgeable in using vouchers [how to use vouchers article] can change the way you view e-commerce for the better.

Vouchers and discount codes are promotional strategies placed to encourage consumers to buy. Among ways you can find one: are via online shopping platforms, in-store promos, news/blogging websites, and coupon companies.

3. Shop responsibly

There is an influx in the diversity of products offered on the web. Teaching your kids to spend their money wisely is beneficial in fostering self-discipline.

An occasional impulsive purchase is nothing to worry about, but online shopping can be addicting. A 2019 research article tied internet addiction and compulsive buying with each other. Subsequently, online shopping can be misused to cope with negative emotions.

Have a clear sense of how your kids are spending their money. If you notice an alarming surge in their spending habits, try to reach out to them and help them assess whether such a purchase is practical.

Telling needs from wants is not as easy as black and white. Needs are defined famously as things vital for us to survive. Times have changed. The world has evolved to the point where survival is not only limited to staying alive. For instance, a student needs a device to survive school in a technologically dependent setup.

Let’s face it. The act of shopping responsibly is highly subjective. One thing for sure is that wants are solely influenced by emotions. You can postpone a need for some time and it would remain a necessity. On contrary, you can want something now and hate it just minutes after – more so following the period of delivery.

Try to practice delayed gratification. Resist your urge to buy your wants right away in hopes of obtaining a more favorable one in the future. In this way, you can pose decision-making as anticipation for a more valuable reward. You may still end up buying your earlier pick but certainly with fewer chances of regrets.

4. Track their expenses

Giving kids an allowance is a good way for them to practice personal finance. Similarly, this can also help them develop their personality by engaging in brands that resonate with their values. But do not forget that you are in control. There is nothing wrong with financing their wants from time to time. On a separate note, fueling unhelpful spending habits is the worst thing you can do.

If they are already earning on their own, it is not helpful to stress over their purchases. However, a few pieces of advice here and there will not hurt. Experiences are valuable enough to be shared, do not be shy to indulge yourself in offering some. Who knows, maybe this can spare them from their worst regrets.

Know your limits. It is easy to get overboard and exert unnecessary effort in caring for your kids. After an exam, it is not the questions we got right that we remember most. We tend to cling and learn more from our mistakes. So make a room for some and let them grow at their own pace.

5. Learn together

It is no secret that Gen-Zers are very effective in navigating the web. A study by the Center for Generation Kinetics deemed them as the most internet-independent generation.

You can learn from them as much as they can learn from you. Be open to take their ideas and engage in fruitful conversations. Whether it be a recommendation for a sustainable shoe website; or comment on trademark infringement faced by your go-to online boutique, welcoming these remarks is a pivotal step to be responsible shoppers.

Not only do they allow you to keep a youthful stance by informing you of views and takes that no longer stand correct, but this can also serve as a shared interest vital in keeping a healthy relationship with your kids. You may even find yourself a buddy in looking for cheap clothes online.

In a nutshell, online shopping is no different from any other stuff where too much of a good thing can be harmful. As parents, it is your responsibility to provide for your kids, but it is also up to you to prepare them for the future. Being money-smart is one of the most helpful skills one should master. E-commerce can be the perfect platform for you to guide them in their early days.