Citi Checking Coupons

(photo credit: Newton Free Library)

If you're anything like us, the arrival of spring conjures up images of open windows, sun-filled days and, of course, spring cleaning our finances.

Even if that last one's not on your list of 'Top 10 Reasons to Celebrate Spring', it should be. That's because the arrival of a new season is a great excuse to do some tidying up—both in your house and with your finances.

Spring cleaning your finances doesn't have to take a long time, either. In fact, here are five things you can do right now to help your finances, each of which would take five minutes or less to accomplish.

I've been known to be a bit of a complainer about my family's financial situation.

With my husband out of work and my freelance income in constant flux, my household exists in a permanent state of financial anxiety.

At least we're in good company: it seems like all our friends are in similar straits, though some folks just seem to have a can-do attitude about money management. We're all scrimping and saving, but not everyone has the desperate, fearful attitude that marks my interactions with the cost of living.

One thing I have done to reduce anxiety a bit is to ramp up my bargain shopping.

You already know why you should have ongoing discussions about money with your child.

It teaches kids to be responsible with spending and saving. They can learn from your mistakes. It sets them on the path for financial success.

On the flip side, your kid doesn't need to know everything you're thinking, at all times, when it comes to finance. "There is no question that bombarding your kids with facts, feelings and information about money all at once, or too early, can be overwhelming for children," says Jaclyn Weitzberg, CFP®, President of Money MindEd, a financial education company for parents and teens.

So what should you keep to yourself? Below, experts comment on when to stay mum … and when it's appropriate to share.

1. What You Earn

The first time your kid asks how much you earn, you may freeze.