Join us this year as we celebrate

National Credit Union Youth Week from April 22nd-28th.

Our theme for 2012 is "Be a Credit Union Super Saver." Click on this link for a coloring page and bring it to STAR Community Credit Union by April 27th to enter in our coloring contest.

Below we have some ideas to help you raise financially savvy kids. Start them young to learn the Savings Game. And remember, STAR Community Credit Union membership is open to all of your family members.

Join the savings team! By teaching kids how to save for their goals, they'll have one of the most difficult aspects of saving under their belt by the time they're teens—being a consistent saver.

Learning to save money takes practice. By saving, you can put your money toward whatever is important to you—whether that's a new video game, a trip to the movies, or even a college education.

Let's get started:

Elementary school:
- Ask your parents to help you open your own savings account at the credit union. Keep track of how much money you put in and take out to see how close you are to meeting your savings goal.
- If you're saving up for something special, like a new bike or toy, hang a picture of it on the wall. This will remind you of your savings goal every day until you reach it.

Middle school:
- Ask your parents if you can plan a family event, like a trip to the zoo or an afternoon at a waterpark. List all the things that will cost money, like tickets, food, and souvenirs. Set a budget, and encourage everyone to stick to it when the big day arrives.
- Make a list of things you want to spend your money on. Put the list in order, starting with the things you want the most. This will help you figure out what you really want to save for.

High school:
- Consider taking a part-time job. Earning your own money can help you save for big goals, like college expenses.
- Talk to your parents about opening a checking account at the credit union. Learning how to use a debit card responsibly and balance your checkbook is good money-management practice.

Stop into STAR Community Credit Union for more great savings ideas.

Copyright 2012 Credit Union National Association Inc. Information subject to change without notice. For use with members of a single credit union. All other rights reserved.