Holiday hustle: how kids are learning to save

17 July 2025
Personal Finance

While school holidays are a break from the classroom, it’s a great time for kids to learn valuable lessons when it comes to financial literacy. From pocket money jars to digital banking apps, Aussie families are getting creative – helping kids understand the value or earning, saving and spending money wisely.

As the break winds down, the NAB team has been out and about, speaking with families across Melbourne’s CBD to find out how they’re building smart money habits at home.

“We’ve come down to the city, we’re gonna go see some shows,” said one parent visiting from regional Victoria. “Then we’re going to spend our pocket money that the kids have earned – some from collecting cans, others from doing jobs around home.”

Another parent added: “we teach them [their kids] how to do their chores so they can save up their own money – just trying to teach them they have to earn their money, and it comes with hard work.”

These everyday moments are powerful teaching tools, says NAB Banker, Claudia Dior, who says financial education starts at an early age with healthy habits.

“Financial literacy starts at home,” says Dior. “And while the holidays may be ending, the lessons learned can last a lifetime.”

Many parents agree: “we want to teach the importance of savings, but I also think it teaches kids some life skills as well.”

To support families on this journey, NAB is sharing three simple ways to turn daily routines into money lessons:

1. Use Technology as a Financial Tool 
For younger children, opening a savings account can be a great way to introduce the basics of money management. NAB’s iSaver Account has no monthly fees and allows kids to set savings goals, track their progress and get familiar with banking in a safe, guided environment.

2. Make the Weekly Grocery Shop an Economics Lesson 
Involve kids in planning meals within a set budget. Encourage them to compare prices, identify discounts and calculate unit pricing. It’s a hands-on way to build maths skills and understand the impact of smart spending.

3. Transform Bill-Paying into Financial Education 
Instead of handling bills behind closed doors, invite kids to observe the process. Explain the difference between fixed and variable expenses, and how income needs to cover these costs. These conversations help demystify household finances and prepare children for future responsibilities.

As families prepare to head back to school, these small but meaningful lessons can help set the foundation for a lifetime of financial confidence.