Talking about money with children and teens can feel overwhelming — but the sooner they start learning, the more confident they can be as they head into adulthood.
At Great Lakes Credit Union (GLCU), we believe financial education should be practical, accessible, and fun. That’s why our youth savings options are designed to help young members develop healthy saving and spending habits from day one.
Whether you’re a parent opening a savings account for a young child or a teen ready to take a more active role in managing money, GLCU offers tools, technology, and education to support every step of the journey.
Why Start Saving Young?
Early experiences with money shape how young people handle finances for the rest of their lives. A youth-focused savings account can help:
- Teach the basics of saving, budgeting, and goal setting
- Encourage responsible spending and planning
- Build confidence with everyday financial decisions
- Create a foundation for long-term financial independence
Savings Options Designed for Kids and Teens
GLCU’s Youth Savings accounts are crafted with the needs of young members and their families in mind. These accounts offer:
- The opportunity to earn interest on their balance. Young savers can watch their balance grow over time, reinforcing the value of consistent saving.
- NCUA-insured deposits. All deposits are federally insured by the NCUA up to $250,000, giving families peace of mind that their money is safe.
- Digital access that fits busy lives, including:
- Free online & mobile banking
- Free eStatements & eAlerts
- Free bill pay
These tools give teens an easy, secure way to monitor their account, build good habits, and stay engaged with their financial goals.
Making Financial Education Engaging
Financial literacy shouldn’t be boring or intimidating. GLCU supports youth financial education with interactive tools that make learning hands-on, including:
Even kids as young as 2 or 3 can start understanding simple money concepts. Through age-appropriate activities, children begin to learn the value of saving, sharing, and spending thoughtfully.
GLCU also supports financial literacy simulations that introduce real-world concepts like budgeting, paying bills, and navigating everyday financial challenges. These experiences help young people understand how the choices they make today impact their future.
For teens beginning their journey toward financial independence, GLCU pairs the Youth Savings account with educational materials and access to products designed to promote a positive financial future.
Ready to Help a Young Saver Get Started?
If you’re ready to introduce a child or teen to the world of smart saving and responsible money management, GLCU is here to help. Visit our Youth Savings page to learn more about our youth accounts and stop by a branch if you’re interested in opening an account.
Together, we can help the next generation build a stronger, more confident financial future.
The information in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. You should consult a licensed financial advisor before investing in any financial product or service.
