Teaching Kids About Gratitude and Money: Family-Friendly Tips to Raise Thankful, Financially Wise, Kids

The season of giving is the perfect time to talk to kids about two powerful life lessons: gratitude and money. While it may not seem like they go hand in hand, learning to appreciate what we have and making smart choices with our money are deeply connected—and lessons that can last a lifetime.

At Casey State Bank, we believe financial wellness starts at home. Helping kids understand the value of money, the joy of giving, and the importance of saving can set them up for a strong financial future—and build character along the way.

Here are a few age-appropriate, family-friendly ways to talk to kids about money and gratitude this holiday season:

1. Start with Gratitude

Gratitude is a great foundation for healthy financial habits. When kids learn to appreciate what they have, they’re more likely to spend thoughtfully, give generously, and save intentionally.

Try this at home:

• At dinner or bedtime, have everyone share one thing they’re thankful for.
• Keep a family gratitude jar—each person writes one note a day leading up to Thanksgiving (or Christmas)!
• Talk about the difference between wants and needs in everyday conversations.

2. Use Real-Life Opportunities to Talk About Money

Whether you’re shopping for holiday gifts, budgeting for a trip, or donating, these are great moments to involve your child in age-appropriate ways.

Ideas by age:

• Younger kids (ages 4–8): Use play money or a piggy bank to show how saving and spending work.
• Tweens and teens: Involve them in creating a holiday gift budget or planning a donation to a local cause.

Let them see how choices impact outcomes—like saving for something special or choosing to give instead of get.

3. Introduce the “Spend, Save, Give” System

One of the simplest and most effective ways to teach kids about money is with three clear categories:

• Spend: For small purchases or fun treats.
• Save: For bigger goals or future needs.
• Give: For helping others or donating to causes they care about.

How to get started:

• Use labeled jars, envelopes, or digital tools if they’re older.
• When they receive allowance, birthday money, or holiday gifts, help them divide it into the three categories.
• Let them make their own decisions (with guidance!)—learning from both good and not-so-good choices is part of the process.

4. Show the Joy of Giving

Giving isn’t just good for the community—it’s good for the heart. Helping your child experience the joy of giving can inspire empathy and a sense of purpose.

Family giving ideas:

• Let your child choose a toy or gift to donate to a local drive.
• Volunteer together at a local food pantry or charity event.
• Support a cause they’re passionate about—animals, the environment, helping other kids—and talk about why it matters.

5. Be a Financial Role Model

Kids learn most by watching what we do. Talking openly about money (in age-appropriate ways) helps take away the mystery and builds trust.

You don’t need to be perfect—just present. Show your own habits, explain your decisions, and talk about your own goals, whether it’s saving for a vacation or donating to your favorite charity.

Planting Seeds for the Future

Teaching kids about money and gratitude doesn’t happen all at once—but every small lesson adds up. As a community bank, Casey State Bank is here to support your whole family’s financial journey—from first piggy banks or savings accounts to first checking accounts, and everything in between.

Looking for more tips or tools for young savers? Stop by your local branch or explore our savings account options—we’re always happy to help your family grow. Contact us today for more information or financial guidance!