Eid lessons: Smart spending and balance for children

Doha, Qatar: As families celebrate Eid and children receive their traditional Eidiya, experts are encouraging parents to turn the festive moment int...

Doha, Qatar: As families celebrate Eid and children receive their traditional “Eidiya,” experts are encouraging parents to turn the festive moment into an opportunity for teaching valuable life skills, particularly financial responsibility and healthy habits.

Salha Abdullah Al-Hitmi, an expert from the Centre for Empowerment and Care of the Elderly (Ehsan), emphasised the importance of guiding children to think beyond immediate spending. 

Speaking to Al Rayan TV recently, she urged families to instill a culture of saving and investing from an early age, suggesting practical steps such as giving children piggy banks or even opening bank accounts in their names.

Al-Hitmi explained that encouraging children to save their Eid money can help them build financial awareness over time. By gradually accumulating their savings, children can learn the value of money and develop a sense of independence as they grow older. 

She noted that while it is acceptable for children to spend part of their Eidiya on small treats or toys, the focus should remain on fostering a habit of saving for the future.