Fun Financial Literacy Games for Children

Introducing children to money concepts doesn’t have to feel like a math lesson. In fact, the most effective way to build foundational money skills is through something kids already love—play. When learning is fun and interactive, children absorb information faster and retain it longer. That’s where money games for kids come in.

From board games and role-playing activities to apps and printable worksheets, teaching finance through play is a creative way to nurture curiosity, build confidence, and lay the groundwork for real-world financial habits. If you’re looking for engaging and age-appropriate educational games about money, you’re in the right place.

Why Games Are a Great Way to Teach Finance

Money can be an abstract concept for kids—especially younger ones. Numbers, value, saving, and budgeting aren’t always intuitive. But when those ideas are wrapped in a game, suddenly they make sense.

Games allow children to practice real-life decision-making in a safe environment. They learn how to count, spend, save, negotiate, and even manage risk—all while having fun. More importantly, games encourage family interaction, turning financial learning into a shared experience rather than a solo lesson.

Classic Board Games That Build Money Skills

Some of the best money games for kids have been family favorites for generations. These timeless board games introduce concepts like budgeting, investing, and strategy in a playful, engaging format.

Monopoly (Ages 8+)

One of the most iconic games around, Monopoly teaches players how to handle money, manage property, negotiate deals, and take financial risks. While the full version is best for older children, junior versions like Monopoly Junior offer a simplified format for younger players.

The Game of Life (Ages 8+)

Players navigate life decisions involving careers, salaries, and major life expenses. It’s a great way to introduce kids to the cost of education, home ownership, and life planning.

Payday (Ages 8+)

This game mimics a monthly budget cycle, helping kids understand income, bills, savings, and unexpected expenses. It’s fast-paced and relatable, especially for older elementary and middle school students.

Digital Games and Apps for Modern Learners

If your child enjoys screens, there are plenty of well-designed digital tools for teaching finance through play. These apps combine gamification with real-world money management lessons.

PiggyBot (Ages 5–10)

Designed for families, PiggyBot is a virtual allowance tracker where kids can allocate money into “Save,” “Spend,” and “Share” categories. While not a game in the traditional sense, its interactive design makes learning personal finance fun.

Peter Pig’s Money Counter (Ages 5–8)

This beginner-friendly app helps young children recognise coins, count money, and understand basic spending concepts. It’s a great intro to currency and math.

Bankaroo (Ages 6–12)

This virtual bank teaches budgeting, goal setting, and savings. Kids manage their own “accounts” and learn how to plan for future purchases.

Financial Football by Visa (Ages 11+)

A fast-paced, NFL-themed game where correct answers to finance questions help you score goals. Topics include saving, budgeting, credit, and more—ideal for tweens and teens.

DIY Games for Teaching Money Concepts at Home

Not all educational games about money require buying a board or downloading an app. With a little creativity, you can bring money lessons to life at home using everyday items.

Storefront Role-Play

Set up a pretend store using toys or pantry items. Give your child fake money or coins and assign prices to different products. Let them “shop” while practising counting, budgeting, and making changes. Older kids can take turns being the cashier, learning about sales tax and receipts.

The Budget Challenge

Give your child a hypothetical weekly allowance and a list of spending needs (e.g., snacks, activities, savings). Ask them to allocate funds across categories and explain their decisions. You can also introduce “surprise events” like a gift they want to buy or an unexpected expense.

Money Bingo

Create bingo cards with money-related tasks or facts: “Name a coin worth 25 cents,” “Save $1 for a toy,” or “Donate to someone in need.” It’s a great group activity for classrooms or family nights.

Coin Sorting and Counting

For younger children, simply sorting coins by value and counting them is a valuable tactile activity. You can turn it into a race, a puzzle, or a matching game.

Educational Subscriptions and Kits

For families who prefer hands-on learning without the screen, several companies offer subscription boxes and kits designed to teach kids about finance through stories, activities, and games.

Biz Kid$ Activity Kits

Based on the Emmy-winning TV series, these kits include lesson plans, board games, and challenges that teach entrepreneurship and money management.

MoneyTime (Ages 10–14)

An online financial literacy course disguised as a game. Kids earn points and build a virtual life by making smart money choices in realistic scenarios.

Kidpreneurs Books and Games

Aimed at inspiring young entrepreneurs, Kidpreneurs blends business basics with personal finance in fun, interactive formats suitable for various age groups.

Making Financial Lessons Part of Everyday Life

The best way to reinforce what kids learn through games is to connect it with real-life experiences. Here are a few ways to do that:

• Let them manage a small allowance or gift money.
• Encourage them to save for something special and track their progress.
• Take them grocery shopping and show them how to compare prices.
• Involve them in simple family budgeting discussions (e.g., how much to spend on a weekend outing).

By turning everyday moments into money lessons, you’re helping your child apply what they learn in games to real-world situations—one decision at a time.

Final Thoughts: Play With Purpose

Money games for kids do more than entertain—they empower. Through playful, low-pressure experiences, children begin to grasp the skills they’ll need to manage money confidently as they grow. Whether it’s counting coins in a homemade store or making investment decisions in a board game, every game is a chance to build lifelong financial habits.

So next time you plan a family game night or hand your child the tablet, consider adding a financial twist. Teaching finance through play doesn’t just make sense—it makes cents.