First National Bank and Trust Company Make Financial Literacy Fun

With Americans spending more and saving less, young people often don’t learn valuable personal finance skills that will benefit them throughout life. 

Together, educators, bankers and parents can help children build good financial habits from an early age.  That’s why First National Bank and Trust Company is participating in the 11^th Annual National Teach Children to Save Day on April 24^th.

Volunteers from First National Bank have found a way to teach kids about saving that provides instant gratification – and can be continued at home.  Using a Wisconsin Bankers Association program called “Reading Raises Interest”, bank staff will read age-appropriate books with a message about money or saving to students at area schools.

This year’s featured book, If You Made a Million by David M. Schwartz, tells the tale of Marvelosissimo the Mathematical Magician and his team as they feed fish, paint pots, transplant tree and baby-sit ogres to earn money.  At the same time, they learn about currency, saving, paying off loans and more.

“Although parents may initially feel uncomfortable talking with their children about money, it’s a topic that can’t be overlooked,” said First National Bank President, Steve Eldred.  “The discussion can begin with something as simple as wants vs. needs,” he said.

In addition to reading books to their children about money, parents can involve kids in spending decisions, encourage them to save part of an allowance, and explain the family’s finances in general terms.

The 11^th annual National Teach Children to Save Day is an initiative sponsored by the Wisconsin Bankers Association and the American Bankers Association Education Foundation.  Last year, 314 bankers reached out to their community to make Teach Children to Save Day presentations.  Together, these bankers make 886 presentations.

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