Opening Their First Savings Account

Introducing kids to banking and guiding them through the process of opening their first savings account offers numerous advantages beyond just saving money. It helps them develop financial responsibility, learn the basics of saving, budgeting, and earning interest, and nurture their sense of independence.

By opening a savings account for children, we equip them with invaluable financial skills and empower them to make informed decisions throughout their lives.

Importance of Teaching Kids About Money Management

It is crucial to instil financial literacy in children from an early age for several reasons.

Builds a strong foundation for their financial future – Introducing children to basic concepts such as budgeting, saving, and responsible spending helps build a strong foundation. By understanding these fundamental principles, children develop the necessary skills to make informed financial decisions as they grow older.
Teaches financial responsibility – They gain an understanding of the value of money and the importance of making thoughtful choices. This awareness cultivates a sense of responsibility and accountability for their financial actions.
Cultivates healthy financial habits – Skills such as regular saving, wise budgeting, and distinguishing between needs and wants become ingrained in their behaviour, promoting long-term financial well-being.
Learning to set financial goals – Whether it’s saving for a special toy, a college fund, or a dream vacation, goal setting teaches children the value of planning, perseverance, and delayed gratification.
Gives a deeper understanding to the value of money – Equipping children with financial literacy helps them understand the real world and the role of money in various aspects of society. They learn about financial institutions, banking, credit, and other important financial concepts. This knowledge empowers them to make informed decisions and navigate financial challenges effectively.
Fosters independence – It empowers children to take control of their finances and make independent financial decisions. As they become more financially savvy, children gain the confidence to manage their money responsibly, reducing their reliance on others.

Selecting the Right Bank and Account

When it comes to selecting the right bank and account for children’s savings, it’s important to research kid-friendly banks and financial institutions that offer suitable options. Here are some factors to consider and the types of savings accounts available for children:

Researching Kid-Friendly Banks

Look for banks or financial institutions that specifically cater to children and young savers. These institutions often provide specialised savings accounts with features designed to meet the needs of children and offer educational resources to support their financial development.

Here are a few examples:

Commonwealth Bank: Commonwealth Bank offers the “YouthSaver” account for children under 14 years old. It comes with no monthly account fees, pays interest on balances, and provides a fun Dollarmites program to teach kids about money.
Westpac: Westpac offers the “Bump” account for kids under 12 years old. It has no monthly account fees and provides a variety of educational resources, including a dedicated website with games and activities to help children learn about money.
ANZ Bank: ANZ Bank offers the “ANZ Progress Saver” account for children under 18 years old. It provides a competitive interest rate and offers various tools and resources to help kids develop good saving habits.
Bank Australia: Bank Australia offers the “Kids Bonus Saver” account for children under 18 years old. It features a high-interest rate and offers bonus interest rewards for regular savings.
Bendigo Bank: Bendigo Bank offers the “PiggySaver” account for children under 12 years old. It has no account-keeping fees and provides access to online banking and financial education resources.

Types of Savings Accounts

There are several types of savings accounts available for children. These include:

Basic Savings Account: This is a standard savings account designed for general savings purposes. It typically offers a low minimum balance requirement and may provide an introductory interest rate.

High-Interest Savings Account: Some banks offer high-interest savings accounts for children, which can help their savings grow faster. These accounts often have higher interest rates than basic savings accounts, encouraging children to save more actively.

Youth Savings Account with Additional Perks: Certain banks offer youth savings accounts that come with additional perks and features. These may include rewards programs, financial education tools, online banking access, or special discounts tailored for young savers.

Comparing Account Features and Fees

When selecting a savings account for children, compare the features and fees associated with each option. Consider factors such as minimum balance requirements, interest rates, fees for withdrawals or transfers, and any additional benefits provided by the bank.

Ensure that the account aligns with your child’s needs and financial goals. For example, if your child is interested in Internet banking or wants to track their savings digitally, choose an account that offers convenient online and mobile banking features.

It’s also essential to consider any fees associated with the account, such as monthly maintenance fees or fees for certain transactions. Look for accounts with minimal fees to ensure that your child’s savings are not eroded by unnecessary charges.

Opening Your Child’s First Savings Account

Opening your child’s first savings account is an exciting milestone in their financial journey. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Prepare Necessary Documents and Information

Before visiting the bank, gather the required documents and information. This typically includes:

- Your child’s birth certificate
- Your child’s passport or other government-issued ID
- Your proof of address
- Your tax file number (TFN)
- Your child’s TFN (if they have one)
- A copy of your most recent bank statement
- A signed consent form from both parents (if applicable)

Schedule a Visit to the Bank

Schedule a visit to the bank with your child. It can be a valuable learning experience for them to be involved in the account opening process. Contact the bank beforehand to ensure you have all the necessary information and to inquire about any specific requirements.

Explain the Account Opening Process

Before heading to the bank, take the time to explain the account opening process to your child. Talk about the purpose of a savings account, how it helps them save money, and the benefits of earning interest. Help them understand the importance of managing their finances responsibly.

Accompany your Child to the Bank

On the scheduled day, accompany your child to the bank. Upon arrival, let the bank representative know that you are interested in opening a savings account for your child. They will guide you through the necessary steps and provide any required forms or paperwork.

Provide the Required Documents

Present the necessary documents, including your child’s identification and proof of address, as well as your identification. Fill out the required account opening forms accurately and provide any additional information as requested by the bank.

Set Up Online Banking and Monitoring Options

Inquire about setting up online banking for your child’s savings account. Online banking offers convenient access to account information, and the ability to track transactions and monitor the account balance. Ensure that you understand the available online features and how to navigate the online banking platform.

Explain the Importance of Monitoring

Teach your child about the importance of monitoring their savings account regularly. Show them how to check the account balance, track deposits and withdrawals, and review statements. This helps them develop good financial habits and stay actively involved in managing their money.

Emphasise Savings Goals

Discuss savings goals with your child. Encourage them to set short-term and long-term goals, such as saving for a toy, a special trip, or even for their future education. Regularly revisit these goals to track progress and celebrate milestones.

Engaging Kids in Banking Activities

Engaging kids in banking activities is an effective way to foster their financial literacy and empower them to become confident and responsible money managers. Here are some strategies to make banking activities enjoyable and educational for children:

Introduce Age-Appropriate Financial Concepts: Tailor financial concepts to your child’s age and understanding. Start with basic concepts like saving, spending, and the difference between needs and wants. As they grow, introduce more complex concepts such as budgeting, interest, and the importance of giving back to the community.
Invite Children to Participate in Financial Discussions: Include your children in financial discussions to help them develop a deeper understanding of money matters. Talk openly about household expenses, budgeting decisions, and savings goals. Encourage them to ask questions, share their thoughts, and contribute to family discussions about financial choices.
Encourage Decision-Making About Money: Give children opportunities to make money decisions. Provide them with a budget for certain purchases, such as buying a toy or planning a family outing. Encourage them to compare prices, evaluate options, and make choices based on their priorities and access to funds. This helps develop their decision-making skills and teaches them to consider the trade-offs involved in spending.
Explore Financial Literacy Resources and Tools: Utilise a variety of resources and tools to enhance your child’s financial literacy. Look for age-appropriate books, games, and online resources that teach financial concepts in a fun and engaging way. Many financial institutions offer educational materials and interactive websites designed for children to learn about banking and money management.
Use Savings Accounts as a Learning Tool: Use your child’s savings account as a practical tool for teaching financial lessons. Help them set savings goals and track their progress. Discuss the concept of interest and how their savings can grow over time. Encourage them to make regular deposits and celebrate milestones when they reach their goals.
Make Real-Life Connections: Help children understand the real-life applications of banking and financial concepts. Take them to the bank to deposit money, withdraw funds, or discuss account activity. Involve them in everyday financial tasks, such as grocery shopping, where they can learn about budgeting, comparing prices, and making informed purchasing decisions.

Remember, the key is to make banking activities enjoyable and relatable to children’s lives. By engaging them in age-appropriate financial discussions, encouraging decision-making, and exploring educational resources, you can help develop their financial literacy skills and set them on a path toward a lifetime of financial competence.

Monitoring and Assessing Progress

Monitoring and assessing progress is an essential part of teaching kids about money management. Here are some strategies to effectively monitor their financial journey and celebrate their achievements:

Review Bank Account Statements with Your Child: Regularly review savings account statements with your child to track their progress. Explain the different sections of the statement, such as deposits, withdrawals, and interest earned. This helps them understand how their money is growing and reinforces the importance of saving.
Celebrate Milestones and Achievements: Celebrate milestones and achievements along the way to keep your child motivated and engaged. When they reach a savings goal or achieve a financial milestone, acknowledge their accomplishment and celebrate it together. This could be a small reward, a special outing, or a recognition ceremony at home. Celebrating their progress reinforces the value of their efforts and encourages them to continue their financial journey.
Adjust Savings Goals as Needed: As your child’s financial situation and priorities change, it’s important to adjust their savings goals accordingly. Sit down together periodically to reassess their goals and determine if any adjustments are necessary. This could involve setting new savings targets, reallocating funds towards different objectives, or exploring additional ways to grow their savings. This process helps children understand the flexibility of financial goals and encourages them to adapt their plans as circumstances evolve.
Encourage Self-Assessment and Reflection: Teach your child the importance of self-assessment and reflection in their financial journey. Help them analyse their spending and saving patterns, identify areas for improvement, and set new objectives for themselves. This self-reflection fosters independence and self-awareness in money management, empowering them to take control of their financial decisions.
Provide Guidance and Support: While it’s crucial to encourage independence, remember to provide ongoing guidance and support to your child. Offer advice, answer their questions, and provide explanations when needed. Be a source of encouragement and motivation, helping them navigate any challenges they may encounter. Your involvement and support demonstrate your commitment to their financial growth and success.

By monitoring and assessing progress, reviewing bank statements, celebrating achievements, adjusting savings goals, and encouraging self-assessment, you create a framework for continuous learning and improvement. These practices help children develop a sense of responsibility, adaptability, and confidence in managing their finances.

Teaching Money Management Skills

Introduce the Concept of Budgeting: Teach your child the importance of budgeting by explaining that it is a way to plan and allocate money wisely. Start by helping them create a simple budget, dividing their income or allowance into different categories such as savings, spending, and giving. Encourage them to track their expenses and adjust their budget as needed.
Encourage Regular Deposits and Savings Goals: Emphasise the habit of regular deposits into their savings account. Encourage your child to set specific savings goals, whether it’s for a toy, a future purchase, or long-term savings. By regularly contributing to their savings, they learn the value of consistency and the benefits of accumulating funds over time.
Track and Review Account Activity: Help your child develop the habit of tracking their account activity. Show them how to review their account statements, monitor deposits and withdrawals, and keep track of their savings progress. Regularly discuss their account activity with them, reinforcing the importance of staying informed and taking responsibility for their finances.
Encourage Wise Spending Habits: Teach your child to make thoughtful spending decisions. Help them differentiate between needs and wants, and encourage them to consider the value and utility of purchases before making them. Discuss the idea of weighing options and making informed choices that align with their budget and savings goals.

Remember, teaching money management skills is an ongoing process. Be patient and provide consistent guidance as your child develops their financial literacy. By instilling these skills early on, you empower your child to make informed financial decisions and cultivate healthy financial habits that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Developing a Healthy Money Mindset

Teach the Value of Money and Hard Work: Help children understand the value of money by explaining how it is earned through hard work and effort. Discuss the importance of setting financial goals and working towards them. Encourage them to take on age-appropriate tasks or chores to earn money, reinforcing the connection between effort and financial reward.
Promote Responsible Spending and Saving Habits: Teach children the importance of responsible spending and saving. Help them differentiate between needs and wants, encouraging them to prioritise essential expenses before indulging in discretionary purchases. Encourage them to save a portion of their income regularly, emphasising the benefits of long-term financial security and achieving their goals.
Discuss Charitable Giving and Community Involvement: Introduce the concept of charitable giving and community involvement to children. Explain the importance of sharing and giving back to those in need. Encourage them to donate a portion of their money or time to charitable causes that resonate with them. Engaging in acts of kindness and community service helps children develop empathy, gratitude, and a sense of social responsibility.
Encourage Financial Curiosity and Learning: Foster a sense of curiosity about money and personal finance. Encourage children to ask questions, seek information, and explore financial topics that interest them. Introduce age-appropriate books, articles, and educational resources that can expand their knowledge of money management and inspire them to learn more.
Emphasise the Importance of Delayed Gratification: Teach children the value of delayed gratification, which means being patient and willing to wait for something they want. Help them understand that saving and working towards a goal can bring greater satisfaction and fulfilment than impulsive spending. By learning to delay gratification, children develop discipline and learn the importance of making thoughtful financial decisions.

By teaching the value of money and hard work, promoting responsible spending and saving habits, discussing charitable giving and community involvement, and emphasising the importance of delayed gratification, you can instil a healthy money mindset in children. These lessons and behaviours lay the foundation for their future financial success and well-being.

Bottomline

Introducing kids to banking and teaching them about financial literacy is of paramount importance. By starting early and staying involved in your child’s financial journey, you provide them with the necessary tools and knowledge to become confident and responsible money managers. The benefits of financial literacy and responsible money management skills extend far into the future, setting them up for long-term financial success and well-being.

By instilling these skills from an early age, you empower your child to make informed financial decisions, cultivate healthy money habits, and navigate the complexities of personal finance with confidence. So, don’t delay—begin the journey of introducing your child to banking and financial literacy today!