Teaching Kids to Set Savings Goals
"I want it NOW!" Sound familiar? Here's how to turn that instant gratification into patient goal-setting.
Why Goal-Setting Matters
When kids save for something specific, they learn three critical life skills:
- Delayed Gratification: The ability to wait for something better.
- Planning: Breaking big dreams into small, achievable steps.
- Pride: The satisfaction of earning something yourself.
The 3-Tier Goal System
Help your child set three different types of goals to keep them motivated:
Make It Visual (The PocketJr Way)
Kids are visual learners. A number on a spreadsheet means nothing. A picture means everything.
Coming soon in PocketJr but feel free to use other useful features:
- 1. Create a Goal: Have your child tap the "New Goal" button.
- 2. Upload a Photo: This is critical. Don't just type "LEGO". Take a picture of the exact box in the store.
- 3. The Progress Bar: Every time allowance hits, the app shows their "Saved" bar creeping closer to the photo. The dopamine hit of seeing that bar move is what builds the saving habit.
The Celebration Ritual
When They Hit Their Goal
Don't just hand them the item. Make it an event! Take a photo of them with their savings. Let them physically hand over the money (even if it's digital). Frame it as: "You worked hard for this. You EARNED it."
This moment cements the lesson: Hard work + patience = reward.
Track Goals in PocketJr
Set up visual savings goals with progress tracking and milestone celebrations.
Start Goal Tracking