Money Management at the Mall
SUBMITTED BY: Paula Armentrout
LAST UPDATED: May 14, 2006

My little and I recently went to Tysons Galleria Mall (a.k.a. Tysons II) located in Tysons Corner.  The purpose was not to just shop, but to give me an opportunity to discuss a number of topics that we had touched on, but I knew we needed to spend more time discussing. 

We had a great time and had wonderful and open and honest communication about:   money management, poverty, animal rights, her goals and college.

The personnel in the stores were great.  She was allowed to touch $18,000 fur coats and hold up designer dresses in front of a mirror. She was floored by the prices of the Hello Kitty diamond pendants....which she acknowledged she could get a knock-off version at Claire's for $5.

But Why?

1. It would be fun to see all the 'fancy' clothes and jewelry....girls (Big and Little) just love that sort of stuff.
2. She is very frugal with money, but a bit too sensitive because of her financial position.  I thought it would give us an opportunity to talk about making smart shopping decisions and the value of frugality and how to make smart shopping decisions (e.g., her conclusion was "if I wait a season or two, this stuff will be available for 99% off at TJ Maxx").
3. It would give me an opportunity to teach her about economics.  In particular, we had a discussion about supply/demand and why there were so few people at Tysons Galleria vs. the regular mall.  Also, we discussed whether or not keeping up with the Jones's was smart vs. buying less expensive items and saving money for college and retirement.
4. I was able to mention that for the price of some of the furs I could put her through college -- so we were able to talk about college.
5. We discussed the ethics of animal rights and raising animals for furs.
6. As we left the mall, I was able to re-enforce the importance of getting an education and pursuing a profession ...she wants to be a veterinarian....so that she will be in a position financially to be able to afford Tysons Galleria Mall but have the luxury of deciding whether or not to pay those prices.

As we left the mall, and I made my final college pitch -- she giggled and smiled the whole way we walked to the car.  I knew she was thinking positively about college, goals and smart money management.

Directions

While you can go to any fancy mall, Tysons Galleria won’t let you down for this goal.

Tysons Galleria
2001 International Drive
McLean, Virginia 22102
703.827.7700

Mall Hours:
Mon - Sat: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm 
Sun: 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm 

Cost

While it is a free activity, there is a new food court on the top level where you can get a snack for you and your little.

Tips

If you’re not one for large crowds, go in the morning or early afternoon.