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Writer's pictureJasmine Brown

How to Introduce Financial Literacy to Kids in a Fun Way

As someone who works with kids, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to prepare them for the real world, especially when it comes to managing money. However, teaching financial concepts can sometimes be challenging—especially when you're working with younger children. So how do we make learning about money fun and engaging? That’s where the Money Lessons with Dad series comes in!


Child reading a financial literacy book for kids

In this post, I’ll share some creative ways you can introduce financial literacy to children in a way that’s not only educational but also enjoyable. Whether you're a teacher, mentor, or someone who simply wants to empower kids with financial knowledge, these strategies can turn money lessons into fun adventures that will stick with them for years to come!



1. Start with stories they can relate to


Stories are one of the best tools to help kids understand complex topics. The Money Lessons with Dad series was created to introduce key financial concepts in a relatable, story-based format. In each book, I use everyday situations kids might recognize—like saving for a new toy or making decisions about what to spend money on.


By following the characters in these stories, children can easily grasp the “why” behind saving, spending, and making smart money choices. When reading to or working with children, make the story interactive by asking questions like:

  • “What do you think will happen if they spend all their money right away?”

  • “What would you do if you were in that situation?”


This way, kids aren’t just passively listening—they’re engaging and thinking critically about the financial choices presented in the story.


2. Make it a game


Who says learning about money has to be boring? Turn money lessons into a game that children will love. After reading Money Lessons with Dad, you can reinforce the concepts by creating a simple activity or game.


Here’s an example:

  • The Coin Challenge: Give the kids a small jar to save coins. Explain how each coin saved brings them closer to a goal, like earning a reward or achieving something they want. You can set weekly “check-ins” where they count their savings and talk about how much more they need to reach their goal.


This game mirrors what the characters in the book might do and creates a real-life connection to the lessons learned.


3. set goals together


In the Money Lessons with Dad series, we talk a lot about setting goals—whether it’s saving for a long-term reward or making smart choices in day-to-day spending. After reading the book with kids, take some time to set a simple financial goal together.


Help them think through a goal they want to achieve. It could be something small, like saving for a treat or an activity. Break it down into smaller, manageable steps:

  • How much will they need to save?

  • How much should they set aside each week?

  • What can they do to earn or save money toward that goal?


By involving kids in the goal-setting process, you’re empowering them to take control of their financial decisions—just like the characters in the book.


4. use everyday situations as teaching moments


One of the best ways to teach financial literacy is by using real-life examples. You don’t have to wait for a special occasion to talk about money; everyday situations are perfect for lessons.


For example, while out shopping with kids or when they’re making a choice about how to spend money, explain how you compare prices or why you choose certain items over others. You can tie these moments back to the lessons learned in Money Lessons with Dad. Ask questions like:

  • “Remember when the character in the story had to decide between two things? What do you think we should choose and why?”

  • “How can we save money while still getting what we need?”


These real-life examples help solidify the lessons from the book and show kids how to apply them in practical ways.


5. celebrate milestones together


Just as the characters in Money Lessons with Dad celebrate small financial wins, it’s important to do the same with the kids you’re working with. When they reach a savings goal, make a smart spending decision, or complete one of the activities you’ve set up, celebrate with them!


This could be as simple as giving them praise or acknowledgment for their effort or even organizing a small reward. These celebrations reinforce positive behavior and help kids feel proud of their financial responsibility.


 

Final Thoughts

Introducing financial literacy to children doesn’t have to be intimidating—it can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and the kids. The key is to make it engaging and relatable, using tools like Money Lessons with Dad to guide the conversation.

Through stories, games, real-life examples, and interactive activities, kids can start building the money skills they’ll need to navigate the world confidently. So, grab a copy of the latest book in the series and start your financial literacy journey together today!

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