NOTE to parents, teachers, and educators of every kind: Use this definition as a simple, kid-friendly teaching tool. Click this link to view the full index of current money terms and definitions, and learn how to use the Sammy Rabbit dictionary to support teaching and learning.
Word Combination and Category
Word Combination: Spend Smart
Related Definition: Spend
Category: Habit Word
What this category means: Habit words describe actions we practice again and again. They help children understand that making thoughtful choices consistently can lead to better money outcomes over time.
Definitions
In Simple Words
To spend smart means to think before you spend your money.
Spending smart helps you choose things that matter most and avoid wasting money.
A Little More Grown-Up
Spending smart means using money carefully and thoughtfully. It involves thinking about needs, wants, prices, and goals before deciding how to spend.
Context Clues
You can find the words “spend smart” in Sammy Rabbit songs and lessons that remind kids to pause, think, and make money choices that help them now and later.
Sammy Says
Sammy Says:
“Pause, think, then spend smart—your future self will thank you!”
Money Habit Connection
Learning to spend smart helps kids avoid impulse buying, make better choices, and ensure their money lasts for things that are truly important.
Silly Sentence
I tried to spend smart, but my piggy bank said, “Let’s sleep on it!”
Serious Sentence
When you spend smart, you use your money in ways that support your goals and values.
Rhyming Sentences
Silly Rhyming Sentence:
I want that toy—it looks so neat! But I’ll spend smart before I eat!
Serious Rhyming Sentence:
When I spend smart and plan my way, my money helps me every day.
Examples of Spending Smart
Thinking before buying something
Comparing prices before choosing
Saving money instead of buying right away
Spending on things that support your goals
Examples of What Is Not Spending Smart
Buying things without thinking
Spending all your money at once
Choosing wants before needs
Buying something just because others are
Related Money Words
Spend • Choice • Budget • Plan • Goal • Habit
Opposite Money Words
Impulse spending • Waste
Questions Parents and Teachers Can Ask Kids
Ask your child or student:
“What could you do to make sure you are spending smart before you buy something?”
Remember
Spending smart is a habit—and good habits help your money work better for you.
Get the Entire Dictionary in One PDF
Want a FREE printable PDF of the complete Sammy Rabbit Kid-Friendly Money Dictionary? Contact us to learn how to get a copy for your home, classroom, or community.
Related Standards Aligned Lesson Plans
Keep Kids and Families Learning
Kids, families, and schools of every kind can enroll in Sammy Rabbit’s Money School with a FREE, PREMIUM or Group Discount Money School Memberships, giving learners access to engaging, age-appropriate financial education resources.
Parents, teachers, and community leaders are invited to explore the resources and teaching tips available on SammyRabbit.com, starting with award-winning financial educator Sam X Renick’s article series, Money Lessons Parents Should Teach Kids!
Schools, community organizations, employers, and partners can learn more about Sammy's Dream Big Financial Education curriculum, a flexible, standards-aligned approach designed to help children build strong money habits, confidence, and lifelong skills.
Contact Sammy Today!
We welcome your questions, suggestions, and ideas! Let’s connect, brainstorm, and partner to keep helping kids, families, and communities build strong financial literacy knowledge, habits, and skills—so together, we can create better and brighter futures for all.
CONNECT NOW
