Guest Blogger Elhadj Toure
In this special guest blog, Sammy Rabbit is proud to showcase the insights of Elhadj Toure!
Elhadj returns as a second-time columnist and one of our outstanding Be the Change Ambassadors. If you haven’t already, be sure to check out his first column: Teen Shares Economic Literacy Gateway to Achievement!
We’re proud to amplify Elhadj's thoughtful insights and real-world experiences. Our hope is that his voice—and those of our Be the Change Ambassadors—spark more young leaders to speak up, take action, and drive meaningful change in their communities.
We highly encourage you to connect with Elhadj and all of Sammy’s Be the Change Ambassadors on LinkedIn—they’re inspiring young leaders who would be a valuable addition to any network!
5 Easy Saving Tips Every Teen Should Know to Have Financial Success
Let’s be real—saving money sounds like a complicated, adult-level task. When I first decided I wanted to save, I honestly thought I needed a whole excel spreadsheet, formulas, and maybe even a color-coded system. And I don’t think I’m the only young person who’s had that thought.
The good news? It doesn’t have to be that serious—especially when you're just starting out.
Taking small, consistent steps can actually get you way further than you’d expect. Whether it’s five bucks from birthday money or a little cash from selling your old clothes, putting a bit aside regularly adds up. The key? Be intentional.
Here are five saving tips that are simple, realistic, and can help any teen trying to get better with money:
1. Start Where You Are, Use What You’ve Got
You don’t need a job to start saving. Maybe you get an allowance, birthday cash, or make some extra money cleaning out your closet. Even if it’s just a few dollars—start with that. The goal isn’t to be perfect. The goal is to just start.
2. Give Your Money a Job
Saving is way easier when you know why you’re doing it. Is it for a new phone? Concert tickets? College? Whatever it is, having a goal gives your money purpose—and it helps you stay motivated when you want to blow it all at the mall or on Amazon.
3. Track It Visually
Trust me, there’s something super satisfying about actually seeing your savings grow. Use a notebook, or even a savings app (like Acorns if you're 18+). Watching the progress makes it feel real—and kind of fun.
4. Try the 50/30/20 Rule (or Make Your Own)
This one’s a classic for a reason: it works. Spend 50% of what you get on needs, 30% on wants, and save 20%. It doesn’t have to be exact, especially when you are young because you most likely don't have to purchase many of your needs by yourself yet. The point is to get into the habit of saving something every time you get money. Consistency > perfection.
5. Reward the Habit, Not Just the Total
Sure, watching your savings grow is awesome but the real flex is building the habit. If you saved something every week for a whole month—celebrate that! You’re learning discipline, and that’s way more valuable in the long run than whatever’s sitting in your wallet.
Saving money as a teen doesn’t have to be stressful. Just start small, stay consistent, and keep your goals in mind. A few dollars today can turn into something big in the future.
So go ahead—get a saving habit started and put a little aside this week.
Your future self will be glad you did!
Connect with our Featured Guest Blogger
Learn more about Elhadj, connect with him on LinkedIn: Elhadj Toure
Attention Young Leaders
We welcome and invite you to participate in Sammy's 'Be the Change' financial literacy initiative for college and high school students.
(1) Join peers advancing awareness on the importance of early age, youth, and family financial education by having your journey into financial literacy featured as a Sammy Rabbit Guest Blogger.
Index of Student Blogs (Click and scroll down)
(2) Then volunteer as a Sammy Rabbit Ambassador or Intern championing financial literacy in your community and around the globe! Learn more in these blogs or by CONTACTING Team Sammy today! We welcome your questions and suggestions on Sammy Rabbit and his mission to get kids, families & communities financially literate.
Opportunities for Impact with Sammy Rabbit
For opportunities to have impact in your community and with the audiences you serve, explore:
Back to School Sponsor Strategies that Boost Financial Literacy for Kids
Financial Education Projects You Can Emulate, Adapt, and Scale
Sammy Rabbit's Financial Education Project Menu
Sammy Rabbit's Sing, Learn, and Color About Money Program
Give Kids and Families Free Access to Financial Education Resources