Kids Money Blog
Practical tips on allowance, saving, and teaching kids about money.
Free vs Paid Kids Money Apps: 2026 Price Guide
Most kids money apps cost $4.99 to $14.98 a month in 2026. The fee buys an issued debit card, not budgeting. Here is what each app charges and who can skip it.
529 Plan vs Custodial Account: Which Fits Your Kid
A 529 wins for college costs with tax-free growth; a custodial UTMA/UGMA wins for any purpose but hands the kid full control at 18 to 21 and hurts aid more.
Cash App Kids Account: 12-Week Money Plan
A Cash App kids account gives you the rails, not the lesson. Here is a 12-week plan mapping each feature to a parent conversation and age-banded script for ages 6-12.
A Money Game for Ages 8-11 (Free, Playable)
Ages 8-11 sit between coin-counting games and teen budgeting sims. Play a free 10-round money game, then use the parent debrief that makes it stick.
Roblox Money Games for Kids: What They Teach
Roblox money games teach kids pricing, saving, and trade-offs, but most reward grinding over budgeting. Here is what they actually teach and what to watch for.
Should Kids Be Paid for Chores? A Balanced Take
The pay-vs-don't-pay debate is a false choice. Use a two-tier model: unpaid family chores kids owe as members, plus paid above-and-beyond jobs they can earn.
Do Money Apps Actually Teach Kids About Money?
Money apps can teach kids real financial skills, but only when the game rewards understanding over points. Here is how to tell which ones actually work.
Average Allowance by Age (2026): Real Numbers
In 2026 kids average about $1 per year of age each week: roughly $5 at age 6, $10 at 10, and $15-20 for teens. See the full age-band table.
When Should You Start Allowance? A Parent's Guide
Most kids are ready for allowance at age 5 to 7, once they can count coins, wait for what they want, and ask to buy things. Here is how to start and the 3-jar method.
Money for Chores: Should You Pay Kids?
The research says pay for extra jobs, not basic chores. Give a small unconditional allowance for family duties, then let kids earn more with a 3-jar split.
Back-to-School Budget 2026: Let Your Kid Own the Supply List
Back-to-school spending hits $864 per family in 2026. Hand your kid the supply list and a set budget, then let them make the calls. A real money lesson in trade-offs.
How to Negotiate Allowance: A Parent's Guide
When your kid asks for an allowance raise, tie it to added chores and use age-tiered scripts. Exact words to say for ages 5-16, plus a fair-raise framework.