Making Work Pay

To our kids, school might mean endless classes and piles of homework and tests. But for adults, advancing our education often means a higher salary.  

This month’s goal: Teach your kids that an advanced education and any time spent learning new skills or perfecting old ones increases a person’s marketability and earning potential. 

Pointers to cover: 

  • Employers pay more for advanced degrees.
  • Many professions require an advanced level of education.
  • Learning is an investment in your future.

Conversation starters 

For kids under age 9:

  • What are some things you’ve learned in school that you’ve used at home?
  • Do you know what you want to do for a living when you grow up?
  • Would you rather spend more time in college if it means making more money afterward?

  • Why do you think employers pay more for workers with advanced degrees?
  • Would you rather spend another 10 years in college if it meant you’d be earning double the salary, but would owe at least $100,000 in student loans? Explain your answer.
  • Is it always worth it to pursue higher levels of education?
  • What are some things you can do today that can help you excel when in college?