Teach Your Kindergartener to Avoid This Habit to Help Them Get Rich Later in Life

Every parent wants what’s best for their kid and to put them on a path to success. Although your kiddo’s ability to provide financial security for themselves once their on their own may be the furthest thing from your mind right now (and who could blame you!), working towards a prosperous future starts at an early age.

How your kid interacts with other children may give a glimpse into their future financial earnings, according to a study published in the Journal of American Medical Association Psychiatry. The 30-year study found inattentive children are more likely to earn lower salaries in their early to mid-30s. There were a few recurring behavioral patterns associated with kids who were inattentive, including kids who disobeyed or blamed others, were constantly fidgety, had anxiety or showed physical aggression.

The researchers looked at teacher questionnaires of nearly 2,900 kindergartners in Quebec from 1980 and 1981, and then cross-referenced the behavioral ratings for each child with their government tax returns from 2013 to 2015. After making adjustments for IQ and family adversity, the results showed 5- and 6-year-olds who were inattentive in kindergarten had lower annual earnings between the ages of 33 and 35. Specifically, children who had high scores of inattention were associated with a decrease in annual earnings equal to about $1,300 for males and $920 for females.

Of course there are limitations to the study, not to mention other factors like parenting styles that could play a part, but the study’s authors hope it shows how your kid’s childhood behaviors could impact their adult life.

Another way you can help your tiny tot become successful as an adult? Let them watch Sesame Street (based on the AAP’s screen time guidelines). According to a previous study, the series helps improve school performance for children, particularly boys, who tune in before turning 7 years old. That’s not all. It also suggests long-term effects where kids are more likely to be employed and earn a somewhat higher wage in the workforce.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.