None other question conjures up more confusion in your child's mind. Here's how to explain to your child why work is such important part of your life.

• Don't dodge the question: Talking to your child about your job teaches him/her about the roles of women, the value of contribution financially to your family and the importance of recognition for doing something that you enjoy.

• Keep it simple: Explain the basics. If you work in real estate, for example, tell your child that you help people find houses for their families.

• Focus on the positive: Don't say things like, "I hate working, but I have no choice." You don't want your child to feel that you're working against your will. An upbeat attitude will positively affect your child's feelings about work in the future.

• Talk about money: Tell your child that one of the reasons you work is to make money. Make sure,however, that the information is tempered with way you value your work. If you're a lawyer, for example, you could say, "I went to Law college to learn how to help people when a crime is committed and it makes me feel good to do that. I also make money so that we can have nice things. "