Teaching Kids About Money
Teaching kids about money doesn’t have to be boring! From toddlers to teens, here are fun, age-appropriate ways to help your child build smart money habits.
Toddlers (Ages 2–4)
Introduce Coins and Counting
Start by playing with real or plastic coins. Count together and sort them by size or color to build familiarity.
Use a Toy Cash Register
Encourage pretend play using a toy register and groceries. This teaches basic exchange and the idea of buying.
Early Childhood (Ages 5–7)
Introduce an Allowance
Give a small weekly allowance and let kids decide how to spend or save. This builds responsibility early on.
Middle Childhood (Ages 8–11)
Open a Savings Account
Take them to the bank to open a joint savings account. Let them deposit birthday or allowance money.
Play Educational Money Games
Use games like Monopoly Junior or financial apps to build math and money confidence.
Teens (Ages 12+)
Introduce Budgeting
Help teens set a monthly budget and track expenses for things like snacks, outings, or school supplies.
Encourage Earning
Support part-time jobs, tutoring, or selling crafts online. Teach them how to save and plan for bigger goals.
Final Thoughts
Financial education should start young and grow with your child. By using fun tools and age-appropriate lessons, you’re giving them the skills to succeed for life. Start small, keep it consistent, and watch them thrive!