One of the best life lessons we can give our children? Teaching them how to be money masters from an early age. But we get it — finances can feel like an overwhelming topic, especially when it comes to little ones. If you're not quite sure where to start, don't worry. We've got your back with top tips and incredible resources to make it an engaging journey!
Whether they're dreaming of that new toy or their first car, instilling the saving habit early on shows kids how their money can grow over time. A clear jar or cute piggy bank makes a perfect first "savings account" at home. Once it's full, bring them into a CCCU branch to open their very own youth savings account and watch the coin machine count it all up!
There's no better way for kids to understand money's value than by earning it themselves. As they use their hard-earned cash for purchases, they'll realize just how much work goes into affording those must-have items. Too young for a job? No problem! Kids can rake in "commissions" at home by helping with chores like taking out trash, shoveling snow, or washing dishes.
We all know how easy it is to make impulse buys. So teach your kiddos to pause and think it over by having them wait at least 24 hours before any big purchase. If they stick to their decision after the waiting period, let them spend that hard-earned money. They'll gain firsthand experience in how their time working translates to spending power.
At City & County Credit Union, we believe it's never too early to start building financial literacy and confidence. That's why we offer a full playground of interactive, age-appropriate resources to make learning about money fun:
Dive into our ever-growing library of adventures that bring key concepts like saving and budgeting to life through engaging animated videos. Each one comes with downloadable activities to extend the learning and laughter at home.
Stop by your local CCCU branch to explore our "Money on the Bookshelf" collection of curated, age-appropriate money-themed books that turn financial lessons into a page-turning journey. Read five books? You'll earn a $5 deposit right into their Kids Club account!
Banzai's interactive online courses gamify financial education through real-world scenarios like running a lemonade stand or budgeting for life's little surprises. It's a genius way to bring money mastery to life through play.
This free app, designed in partnership with money masterminds, gives your child a virtual financial playground. Through chores, allowances, and their very own virtual banking, they'll learn to earn, save, spend, and even share money — all while having a total blast.
FYI — As a proud City & County Credit Union member, you can download the app & enjoy access for FREE!
At the end of the day, empowering our kids to be money-savvy from day one is one of the greatest investments we can make in their futures. The financial habits and skills they build today will open doors and shape their confidence for years to come.
So what are you waiting for? Let's start this rewarding family adventure together! Explore our full range of family-friendly resources by dropping into your nearest CCCU branch or clicking the button below. The future is bright for our Money Mavens-in-Training!