A Parent's Guide and Map to Money Talks with Kids, Question 2

Today’s Theme and Main Question

Theme: Big dreams and goals are achieved through planning, taking small steps, and adjusting along the way.

Main Question:
“If you were to save $500 this new year, how would you do it?”

(Feel free to adjust the dollar amount based on your child’s age, experience, and comfort level.)

Whether their answer is detailed, simple, or uncertain, the question itself encourages kids to think about planning, effort, and possibility.

Remember:

If children respond—great. If they don’t respond—great.

Either way, you’ve planted a seed.

A Note About Today’s Image

The image at the top of this blog comes from our read-and-color story activity book.

This interactive learning resource helps build children’s reading, writing, money, and critical-thinking skills. It can be located both in Sammy Rabbit's Money School and in Sammy's online store!

Build the Conversation With These Follow-Up Questions

Today’s main question can naturally lead to a deeper conversation. Below are four optional follow-up questions parents may use. Choose one or two that feel appropriate.

1. What strategies do you have in mind to start saving money?

Encourage your child to think ahead and plan. Invite them to name specific actions they could take to reach their goal.

2. Are there any additional ways you could earn money to boost your savings?

Challenge your child to think creatively about possible earning opportunities or extra sources of income.

3. Are there any things or activities you’d be willing to cut back on to save money?

This introduces saving from another angle—being a thoughtful spender and a savvy consumer.

4. Would you consider setting aside a portion of any gifts you receive during the year?

This helps children understand that not all money is earned and that gifts can also support savings goals.

Questions for Kids From Readers

Members of the Sammy Rabbit global financial literacy community shared additional questions parents may want to ask to spark meaningful money conversations:

Sharita M. Humphrey, CFEI (Houston, Texas), suggests:
“Do you have a budget?”

Karen Holland, Founder of GiftingSense, suggests:
“What’s the full cost of going to the movies?”

About This Series

This daily question series is designed to support parents, teachers, and mentors by making money conversations with kids simple, natural, and meaningful.

Here’s the most important thing to remember:

If kids respond—great.
If they don’t respond—great.

You don’t need to correct, lecture, or over-explain. Your role is to ask, listen, and keep the conversation going over time. Learning about money is a process—and repetition builds confidence.

Your Suggestions

We value your input! Join us in sparking conversations about money among kids, families, and communities, fostering the growth of personal finance knowledge and skills. Whether you're starting or continuing, today is a Sammyriffic day to dive in and HOP the TALK AHEAD!