Give the Gift That Grows: Holiday Savings Ideas for Kids
This holiday season, consider giving your child a gift that lasts far beyond the wrapping paper: a CAMPUS Kids Savings Account at CAMPUS USA Credit Union. While cash in a card is always appreciated, placing that money into a savings account helps it grow through dividends and sets your child on a path toward lifelong financial confidence.
At CAMPUS, we believe financial education starts early. The holidays offer the perfect opportunity to turn gift money into meaningful learning moments.
Start Early: Holiday Moments Become Money Lessons
From watching you pay at holiday markets to helping pick out family gifts, children naturally notice how money works. Use these seasonal moments to teach them the value of saving. Choose a small holiday wish they have and help them set a savings goal to achieve it. They can earn “holiday helper” money through age-appropriate chores and track their progress with a festive chart or piggy bank. These early lessons build healthy money habits that last.
Elementary Age: Saving, Spending & Sharing - Credit Union Style
Elementary-age children love hands-on learning, which makes this a great stage to use the three-jar method:
- Savings: For long-term goals
- Spending: For small holiday treats
- Charity: For giving to others in need
When they receive money from relatives or holiday events, they help split it between the jars. This method mirrors the budgeting approaches we encourage at the credit union, helping kids see money as something to plan, enjoy, and share.
Teens: Turning Holiday Earnings into Financial Independence
If your teen earns money from babysitting, snow shoveling, or seasonal work, it’s time to take the next step: open a Rising Star Checking Account.
You will have to co-sign onto their account, but they’ll gain firsthand experience managing their money. Show them how to:
- Check balances through online banking
- Use our mobile app to monitor transactions
- Understand pending vs. posted purchases
- Review their monthly statements
- Build a simple budget for holiday spending and beyond
Once they are comfortable managing day-to-day money, you can introduce an even bigger lesson: saving for the future. If your teens have earned income, you may consider opening a custodial IRA for them. Even small contributions can grow significantly over time, helping individuals understand the power of long-term investing and compound interest.
By combining smart spending habits with early saving strategies, teens build confidence, responsibility, and a strong financial foundation that can benefit them for years to come.
If you want to learn more about kids' savings or checking accounts, we’re here to help. Please stop by any of our convenient Service Center locations or call us at 800-367-6440 and press 7 today!
By CAMPUS USA