3 Fun Games to Teach Kids About Saving & Spending

Saving vs. spending—it’s one of the first (and trickiest!) money lessons kids bump into. Do I buy that toy today, or save up for something bigger tomorrow? While the concept feels huge, the good news is kids don’t need a lecture—they need practice. And the easiest way to practice? Through play. In this post, we’ll share 3 fun, low-prep games that teach kids how to make smart choices with their money—without feeling like homework.

1. Monopoly Junior

Think of this as the kid-friendly version of Monopoly that doesn’t take three hours and end in tears. 😂 Monopoly Junior is perfect for teaching little ones the basics of money: earning, saving, spending, and even that tiny thrill of buying something “big.” They’ll pick up on the idea of saving up for future moves while still having fun collecting properties and counting cash. Bonus: it sneaks in math practice without anyone noticing.

2. The Allowance Game

If your kids already get an allowance (or are constantly asking why they don’t), this game is a win. Players earn “allowance money” by doing tasks, and then they have to decide—spend it now on something small, or save up for a bigger prize later? It’s basically budgeting in disguise. What I love about it is the built-in conversation starters: you’ll find yourself talking with your kids about what they think is worth saving for, and how long they’re willing to wait.

3. The Savings Challenge Jar

This one is so simple but so powerful—and it’s not even a board game! Grab a clear jar (or two) and let your kids decorate them. One jar is for savings (toward a goal like a new toy or a family outing), and the other can be for spending money. Every time they drop coins or bills into the jar, they see their progress building. It’s a hands-on way to make the abstract idea of saving feel real. Plus, when they finally hit their goal, the pride on their face is priceless.