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School-age children and planning

Talking with your child about money can go smoother if you keep the conversation age appropriate. The conversation starters and activities here can help you find the words.

Conversations about planning

“Lots of people make lists and plans for what they want to buy with their money.”

  • Ask your child to set a goal for something she wants, and talk about the steps it would take to get it. Over time, check in to see how the steps are going and whether that goal is still important.
  • Share your own tips and strategies for how you make plans and get yourself to stick to them.

Activities about planning

“Before you spend money, have a plan in mind.”

  • Practice making a list before you go to a store or on a shopping trip. Talk about how easy or hard it is to stick to the list.
  • Play strategy games like Chinese checkers and mancala to strengthen your child’s focus on planning ahead.

Bingo on the Go

“Notice how money supports the places, services, and things you use.”

In your community or as you travel, check off the places you see and talk about how each place is funded – public, private, nonprofit, or a combination of these.