Elmo Learns to Save
Sing along to a song about saving.
Every goal starts with taking a first step. Teaching kids to save money by collecting in a specific place—such as a piggy bank or a jar—shows kids concretely how much they are saving. Put a little change in every so often so they see how to save over time. Every time you save up to a certain small, new amount, celebrate by doing a fun “I Can Save” dance!
- Start first with simple goals that kids can achieve over a short period of time. Once they master simple goals, like saving to buy a small treat, try setting larger goals that require saving over longer periods of time. Understanding how to wait for what they want can help kids learn to save for important things later in life.
- Elmo and his friends count the dollars he earns and saves. You can also use this opportunity to discuss how math concepts are used in everyday situations. What happens each time Elmo adds a dollar to his jar?
Saving, Spending, Sharing
Help kids learn the value of money when they spend, share, and save.
Money Talk
Learn how you can answer kids’ questions about money.
V Is for Value
Value can mean many different things! Talk to your child about all of them.
Making Choices
Look for ways to teach your child about making choices.
Guest Post: Helping your child’s money skills grow
Parents and caregivers can be a powerful influence on their children’s financial future—and you don’t have to be a money expert to start them out strong.
Need It or Want It?
Needs and wants are different. Kids can learn the difference from you.
Building Financial Skills in the Classroom
These classroom activities emphasize the key financial concepts of choices, value, and financial literacy skills: spending, saving, and sharing.