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Smart$ense

It’s never too early to teach kids about money and help them build financial knowledge. Get the conversation started with Smart$ense—our age-appropriate resources to help kids learn financial basics. Share these links with your kids, grandkids, friends, or anyone you think is ready to learn.

Ages 6–8: learn about money and about saving vs. spending

At this age, kids may not know what money is. Make it fun to learn about money by watching this video with them and reading this comic book to reinforce the lesson.

Video: What is money?

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Comic book: Manny and Liv

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Ages 9–13: needs vs. wants

Life is full of needs and wants—and what kids think they need is often just something they really want. Help kids understand the differences by sharing this video with them. Then they can also complete an activity to help them learn how they can make their own choices.

Video: Needs and wants

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Handout: How do you know if you want something or need it?

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Ages 14–18: debit vs. credit

Paying with debit and credit cards and other digital methods is now the norm. Kids see you tap and swipe to pay for items everyday—but do they really know what they are and how to use them? Help kids understand the differences between debit and credit cards by sharing this video with them. Then use the handout to help them practice deciding what’s right for them.

Video: Debit cards and credit cards

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Handout: Wondering about debit and credit cards?

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The content of this document is for general information only and is believed to be accurate and reliable as of the posting date, but may be subject to change. It is not intended to provide investment, tax, plan design, or legal advice (unless otherwise indicated). Please consult your own independent advisor as to any investment, tax, or legal statements made.

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