Many adults will tell you they wish they had learned more about money when they were young. And they’re not wrong – research increasingly shows that early exposure to financial concepts can have a lasting impact on how confidently and responsibly people handle their finances later in life.
Studies published in recent years confirm what educators and parents have long suspected: children start forming money habits earlier than we think. A review of financial literacy programmes found that introducing money lessons between the ages of six and twelve supports greater financial independence and resilience later on. Another international study found that children who regularly discuss saving and spending with their parents show stronger money management skills and a more positive attitude towards saving.
These findings reinforce a simple idea – that financial literacy should start at home and in the classroom, long before teenagers get their first payslip or credit card.
That’s why initiatives that make financial education both accessible and engaging for children are so important. One such project comes from Alexforbes, which has launched a new digital children’s book designed to help young readers understand the basics of saving, planning, and making considered financial decisions.
The book, Smart Money Moves for the Save Squad, takes young readers on a series of adventures with relatable characters who face everyday money decisions – whether to spend now or save for something special, how to tell the difference between needs and wants, and how a bit of planning can make future goals achievable.
The stories, inspired by classic fables, are paired with short activities and reflection questions that turn reading time into learning time. Each section ends with simple exercises – such as small budgeting challenges or “money missions” – to help children connect what they’ve read to real-life experiences.
The idea behind the book is to provide children with the language and confidence to talk about money from an early age.
Riccardo Fontanella, executive: group marketing at Alexforbes, says the project was motivated by the recognition that “financial literacy in South Africa remains a challenge, and early exposure to simple concepts can make a meaningful difference”.
The stories were developed by Joannie Maass, senior technical investment specialist at Alexforbes.
The book’s digital format – complete with optional audio – means it can reach children across South Africa, including those in schools and homes where financial education resources are limited. Teachers can weave the stories into life-skills or numeracy lessons, while parents can read along at home, turning what might otherwise be a tricky topic into a shared moment of discovery.
According to Alexforbes, the format encourages curiosity and engagement, allowing children to explore ideas in a safe, guided way.
“Money touches so many parts of daily life, and when we explain it in simple, relatable terms, children quickly grasp that saving and planning give them choices.”
By making the stories accessible, Alexforbes hopes to spark these early conversations in homes and classrooms across the country.
“Smart Money Moves for the Save Squad provides families with practical tools to discuss money in a relatable way, helping children form habits that will support them throughout their lives,” says Fontanella.
The digital book can be accessed here.
