Kids$ave

Gr 1—5—Before children can develop good money management skills, they need to understand concepts like interest rates, savings goals, and the value of currency. This program provides a personal management system for kids' finances, with its simple, calculator-like interface that helps adults teach kids to manage money. The "Banker" sets up accounts and options for each child, adding such variables as interest on savings to encourage young people to set money aside. The Banker can also lock the amount of money that must be held in savings and confirm each of the child's transactions. Adults can "deposit" money into accounts virtually, and only pay out when the child spends. Children have a lot of control over the interface, too, and can set a pin number and change the appearance and the sounds that are made with each action. Kids can set a goal and track their progress toward achieving it, whether it is to save a certain amount, buy something special, or transfer money to another account. In the "What If?" section, they can see how their savings will change if any of the earning/spending variables are changed. With the "Money Counter," kids can add up their pocket money. Instructions and help are clear and easy to find, and most screens can be printed. With the help of this engaging, straightforward program, parents can help their children become financially responsible.—MaryAnn Karre, Horace Mann Elementary School, Binghamton, NY