Author and radio host Dave Ramsey is never one to hold back on his opinions about how people handle their money.
This can be starkly apparent when it comes to how financial behavior affects families.
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An advice-seeker, identifying herself as Kaytee, had a specific concern along these lines.
"Dear Dave," she wrote, according to KTAR News in Phoenix. "My husband and I are having arguments about money where our children are concerned. They are both 16, and I think they should have part-time jobs and be learning the value of work. He feels they’re only young once and wants them to enjoy being teenagers."
She explained how financial issues have complicated her family life.
"He also gives them money anytime they ask," Kaytee wrote. "I want our kids to have fun growing up, too, but this is beginning to cause tension in our relationship. I'd love your advice."
Ramsey had some strong words on the subject.
"I understand your concern. I'm sure your husband has a good heart, but by doing this he’s acting like a friend instead of a parent," he wrote. "In the process, he's allowing them to be nothing but takers and consumers. He's setting them both up for lifetimes of helplessness and ridiculous expectations without realizing it."
The personal finance personality discussed how he, as a parent, handled a similar challenge.
"But yes, kids should absolutely learn to work, make money and manage it wisely from an early age," he wrote. "My wife and I gave nice gifts to our kids from time to time, but they also worked and made money for themselves. And the nicer gifts we gave them were for special occasions. Even then we didn’t go crazy with things."
Ramsey interjected a few thoughts about how people in relationships communicate with each other about sensitive topics.
"Still, the biggest problem you and your husband are experiencing is a communication breakdown," he wrote. "Your husband should stop being so impulsive, and grow a backbone where the kids are concerned. You’ve recognized this -- and you're right about it -- so it's up to you to take the first step in finding a solution."
One Approach to Handling the Situation
Ramsey suggested a possible way to confront the issue.
"Try sitting down with him, just the two of you, and sincerely explaining your feelings," he wrote. "Let him know you love him and how generous he is. But let him know, too, you’re worried this is having a negative impact on your children and why."
"Talk it out, openly and honestly, and try to agree on some changes together," Ramsey continued. "There's a middle ground here, but it's going to take some time and effort from both of you to reach it."
Ramsey then told Kaytee that the challenge ahead may not be easy.
"Most of all, it means you two will have to communicate with each other like mature, caring adults, and pull together for the sake of your kids," he wrote. "It might be difficult at first, but it’ll be worth it in the long run. For you and them."
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