I Don’t Know How to Have a Financial Conversation With My Senior

You know money needs to be discussed—but you’re not sure how to begin. You don’t want to scare them, avoid the topic, or share more than feels appropriate.

CHECK FIRST
Pause and consider:
What does my senior already understand about money?
What is helpful for them to know right now?
What feels like too much for this moment?
Am I aiming for honesty—or total transparency?
Financial conversations can grow over time.

THEN
Choose an approach that supports understanding.

Option 1: Start with shared goals
Talking about priorities can feel safer than talking about limits.

Option 2: Keep the conversation ongoing
One talk doesn’t have to cover everything.

Option 3: Invite questions
Let your senior guide how much detail they’re ready for.

PAUSE
This doesn’t have to be a perfect conversation. It just has to be honest enough for now.

NOTES / REFLECTION
If it helps, reflect on:
What do I want my senior to understand most?
What feels hardest to say right now?
How can I keep this conversation open-ended?

If you want to understand why senior year feels heavy right now, start with Senior Year, Season by Season.

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