Summer break is and can be full of opportunities for our kids: Sports, vacations, sleeping in, and a break from the school routine. But it’s also the perfect time to teach youth real-life lessons that often get overlooked during the busy school year, like how to manage money.
From lemonade stands to lawn mowing gigs, summer offers an abundance of ways for kids and teens to earn and spend their own money. That means parents, caregivers, and educators have a golden opportunity to help youth learn budgeting basics and develop lifelong financial habits.
Money management doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small with conversations about saving, spending, and sharing. Help young children divide their allowance into jars labeled “Save,” “Spend,” and “Give.” This visual approach teaches them that money has purpose and that not all of it is meant to be spent right away.
Older youth and teens can take it a step further by setting savings goals. Whether they want a new pair of shoes, a bike, or to start saving for college, having a goal in mind makes budgeting more meaningful. Try having them track their spending for one week or one month; the results might surprise both you and them!
Summer also brings real-world financial decisions: Will they buy ice cream every time the truck comes around, or save for something bigger? Can they stick to a budget at the county fair or amusement park? These small, everyday choices offer excellent teaching moments along with responsibility.
Teaching children to handle money doesn’t need to be difficult. It just takes a little time, patience, and practice. When youth learn to make smart money choices now, they’re better prepared for the financial responsibilities that come with adulthood.
So, this summer, skip the lecture and go for the lesson in the form of a lemonade stand, a school shopping plan, or a savings challenge. “Sweet savings” today can lead to even sweeter financial success tomorrow.
For more information or assistance, contact Community Vitality Agent Amanda Clasen at any Southwind District office or [email protected].
