If you are a parent, then you know all about the horror stories about kids let loose inside a mall with a credit card. Although, this is probably a stupid idea, especially if your children are shop-a-holics, you still need to look out for those rare moments when they do set out on their own in the commercial jungle.

You can protect them and their, or your, money from these pigs. How? By teaching them all about handling money responsibly. These days, parents are underestimating the power of being a parent, but you can actually teach them a few lessons handling cash, and probably some in life, just by following some of these few simple steps.

Get a job. Not for you, for your kids. If they're old enough, you might want to consider asking them to have a job. Teenagers are more likely to give more value to money especially if they worked hard for it. Working also teaches them diligence and discipline. But you have to make sure this doesn't mess around with their other responsibilities like chores or school.

Teach them how to save. You as a parent can show your kids the great advantages of having some savings. Tell them all about banks and how money can grow from interest in savings accounts. This will sure pique their interest. You can also suggest that they start out a college fund for themselves as early as today. It's never too early to prepare for something like that.

Keep a budget. And what better way to teach them about this than by letting them join in on the fun while you're doing your own budgeting. You are doing your own budgeting, right? Well, if you're not, do it with them. It's a good way to lead by example.

Teaching them responsibility when it comes to handling money is one of the best things that you, as a parent, can teach your child. Believe me, it's going to save you and your future adult kids a lot of trouble if you did.