Wondering when you can start teaching your kids about money? Older toddlers and preschoolers are starting to learn numbers, counting, and basic math. As such, it’s a great time to introduce basics money concepts. What are simple money lessons you can teach to preschoolers? Here are ten easy ideas.

10 Money Lesson Ideas for Preschoolers

With kids this young, I like the idea of using simple, every day activities to foster basic skills. Remember – the more visual, hands-on, and concrete you make it, the better.

1. Start with basic counting and math.
2. Talk about how we buy things with money. Use everyday experiences (ex: at the store) to show how you buy things with money.
3. Identify items that cost money.
4. Play store or restaurant. Our 2-year old loves anything imaginary, and loves playing “go to school,” “restaurant,” and “go to work.”
5. Count and trace coins.
6. Play matching games with bills and coins.
7. Talk about how we work for money.
8. Start to teach about needs vs. wants. (Ask, do you need this? Or, do you want this?)
9. Start to teach delayed gratification. (Ex: Don’t buy everything they ask for – explain we need to save for it, or wait for a birthday or Christmas)
10. Start age-appropriate chores.

For a full list of money lessons by age, see: HOW TO TEACH KIDS ABOUT MONEY – IDEAS FOR EVERY AGE

What money lessons are you teaching to your preschoolers? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments below!