Introduction to Financial Literacy for Teens

Why Financial Literacy Starts Now

Pick goals you actually care about—like a bike, summer trip, or laptop—and put a date on each. When your goal is vivid and time-bound, your daily choices feel purposeful, not restrictive. Tell us what you’re saving for this month.

Why Financial Literacy Starts Now

A need keeps you safe, healthy, or learning; a want feels great but can often wait. Try listing five recent purchases and label them. The aha moment usually appears on item three. Comment which one surprised you most.

Budgeting Your First Dollars

Aim roughly for 50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings and giving. If chores, gigs, or part-time work vary, convert percentages to exact amounts after each payday. Adjust as seasons change, and post your personalized split to inspire others.

Budgeting Your First Dollars

Use a notes app, envelope labels, or a bullet journal—whatever you will actually open. Color-code goals and set a weekly fifteen-minute money check-in with music. Consistency, not perfection, builds confidence. Share your favorite tracking tool and why it works.

Saving and Compound Interest, Explained Simply

When you save regularly, interest gets added and then earns interest too. Even small amounts multiply over years. Try this: set a monthly amount and track growth for twelve months. Post your starting number and your target finish line.

Smart Spending and Consumer Awareness

Become a Unit Price Detective

Compare cost per ounce, sheet, or gigabyte, not just sticker prices. Bigger is not always cheaper. Snap photos of labels, do the math, and choose the best value. Share your best unit‑price victory below to help other readers.

Influencers vs. Your Goals

Pause twenty‑four hours before buying something you saw online. Ask, does this move me toward my goal, or away from it? Curate your feed with creators who teach skills, not just sell. Comment one account that genuinely helps you grow.

Receipts, Returns, and Warranty Know‑How

Save digital receipts, learn store return windows, and register warranties for electronics. A quick calendar reminder can save real money. When something breaks, you will be ready. Share a time good record‑keeping rescued your budget.

Use checking for daily spending and savings for goals and interest. Link them, but keep goals separate to avoid accidental swipes. Review statements monthly. Tell us one feature you want in your first (or next) bank account.

Banking 101 for Teens

Look for gigs that match your strengths—tutoring, lawn care, pet sitting, or digital design. Check local labor rules and transportation options. Keep a simple schedule. Share one opportunity you will explore this week and why it fits you.

Estimate how long tasks take, include supplies, and set a rate that respects your effort. Ask about taxes and paperwork at jobs, like the W‑4. Review after a month. Post your first quote draft and ask for community feedback.

Write a three‑sentence pitch: who you help, how you help, and what result you deliver. Practice out loud and update after each job. Confidence compounds, too. Share your pitch below and invite peers to swap suggestions.