Materialism's Sweet Spot

Sustainable Minimalists

"Much of the time I tell my kids that material possessions aren't that important, but I also want them to take care of the possessions they have. How should I best juggle these messages and still get my points across?"

As sustainable minimalists, we want our children to devalue stuff, as we certainly don't want them to associate their sense of self-worth with what they own. But at the same time we also want them to care for their existing possessions even though such care requires a certain amount of 'stuff' reverence.

It's a real paradox: On one hand we preach that stuff doesn't matter, but on the other we shout from the rooftops that stuff matters an awful lot and we best take care of it.

Amidst such conflicting messages, what's a child to believe?

On today's show I'm answering a listener's question about the sweet spot between the two extremes of materialism and reckless ownership.

Here's a preview:

[6:30] 2 parenting practices that result in materialistic children, according to research

[12:00] Best behaviors when bringing children into brick-and-mortar stores

[17:45] The how and why behind letting your child experience the natural consequences of their actions

[24:30] Parents, beware of these two research-backed materialist beliefs

[27:00] How to behave (and what to emphasize) when you buy new items for your children

[33:00] The sweet spot lies in these 3 quiet, simple, and non-grandiose habits that parents model every day

Resources mentioned/Further reading:

• The 3 Parenting Strategies That Cause Kids to Become Materialistic (via Very Well Family)
• Say hello! Email Stephanie at [e-mail] or leave a voicemail at [phone] (US and Canada listeners only)

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