A lot of readers have asked me if Rakuten is legit. If you can really make money and save money with Rakuten. The answer is yes! The first month I used Rakuten I forgot to use it for half my purchases and still made $49.99. After that, I downloaded the app and browser extension.

What is Rakuten

Rakuten (formerly Ebates) is a free program that allows (you) its members to earn cash back or get discounts when you shop online or in stores. It’s free to members because stores pay Rakuten a commission for sending members (you) to their website. Rakuten then splits that commission with you.

You’ll see 2-3% on average for cash back but I’ve also seen 5-15% cash back. It’s essentially free money for clicking a link before making a purchase you already planned on making.

Wouldn’t it give you peace of mind to know you’re passing good money habits along to your child? Many of us were never taught the value of money. The problem is your kids are learning about money whether it’s intentional or not.

The money behaviors your child observes and learns in childhood will shape their attitudes and future money habits. By the early age of 7, many of your child’s money habits are set.

Your job as a parent is to teach your kids financial responsibility. Learning basic money skills and concepts such as patience and delayed gratification can mean the difference of raising financially savvy kids or not.

Lead by example

Kids are constantly getting messages about money in the home, through the television and the media. They are highly perceptive and internalize the spoken and unspoken messages they receive.

How do you speak about money? What do you say about it? Do you have an abundant or scarcity mindset towards money?

Let your children hear you talk positively about money. Encourage your child to express gratitude for the little things in life.

Have you ever sought out financial wealth and thought it was the answer to your problems?  I have. While having financial wealth will make your life easier in a lot of ways it is just one pillar.

If you recently heard the term authentic wealth you may be wondering what it is exactly. When you think of wealth you mainly think of financial or material wealth. But if I asked you what you value in life you might say your family, friends or health.

Authentic wealth is the interdependent relationship of all areas in your life that matter.

Getting out for date night after having kids can seem like a challenge. You’re tired, too busy or feel like you should be spending money on other things.

If you don’t have family nearby date night can feel like a splurge. With the babysitter, dinner and entertainment it can add up quickly costing $100’s of dollars for a few hours out.

If you’re short on time or money date night doesn’t have to go by the wayside. Here are 33 date night ideas that can be done inexpensively, at home, with or without a babysitter.

1. Movie night

Avoid the lines, stay home and watch an Amazon Prime or Netflix movie after the kids go to bed. Create an atmosphere. Light candles, make popcorn and get romantic with a warm blanket to snuggle under.

2. Go for a bike ride

Relax and reinvigorate yourselves with a bit of fresh air and nature. Ride local, take your bikes to the waterfront or find a bike path. If you don’t have bikes, rent or borrow them from friends.

3. Workout or do a yoga class together

If your gym has childcare take advantage of it. Use it as a way to get in shape an spend quality time with your partner. Those that play together stay together!