Conversations about “kids today” seem to be a popular and frequent subject. I don’t know about you, but I seldom hear the kids come out on top. Well, I have proof I want to share that proves there are some great kids out there searching for a life direction, not so different from the older generations when we were kids ourselves. To my surprise, a text from my grandson sure got my attention.

A text showed up from Alex who has just signed up to start college this fall. I guess credit card companies are still hunting down new, inexperienced kids at these events because Alex signed up. Instead of running out and buying everything in sight, Alex texted me.

Grandma, can you advise me on how not to be stupid with my credit card?

WOW! I could hardly believe it, and I couldn’t say yes fast enough. I told him I was honored he asked me, then quickly made a list of the most important things I thought he needed to know. It turned into a mini course on credit, delivered through Alex’s preferred method of communication: texts. First, I explained the purpose of credit cards and how credit bureaus and credit scores work. Next, I covered the smart ways to use credit, as well as how easy it can be to get into trouble—such as charging too much or using more than half of your credit limit. Most importantly, we talked about how to recognize fraud and what to do if it happens, which is especially important for young people.

After a few days I checked in with Alex to see how he was feeling. Being a young man of few words I felt like he gave me a good grade when he said, “Better.”

This story took me back to when I was Alex’s age when I had the chance to go to college but adamantly declined. The truth was I was embarrassed and didn’t want to admit I didn’t know how to go to college. To my older brother’s total credit, he pushed me into signing up for my ACT, drove me there and walked me to the room where it was given. I was sure I couldn’t do it, but I did. I didn’t get all excited then and run off to register, but I did as a non-traditional student. Thirteen years later I knew I could do anything I put my mind to when then handed me my diploma for my Master’s Degree.

How are our kids supposed to know what their options are and how to make good choices if we don’t teach and show them? It doesn’t have to be something huge, but it needs to be something. Maybe then when they have serious questions as teens or after that they will know where they can go for help.

Love you Alex.