Raise Money-Smart Kids—No Matter Where You Live
From pocket money to real-life lessons, give your kids the financial confidence to thrive—across borders and currencies
Download the Age-by-Age Money Talk Guide
How to Teach Your Kids About Money While Living Abroad
Raising kids abroad is an adventure—and a challenge. Between new school systems, new cultures, and maybe even new languages, it’s easy to forget that money lessons don’t pause when you move.
But financial education is one of the best gifts you can give your child—especially when navigating life as an expat family.
According to the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), just 22% of students in Europe felt confident managing day-to-day finances—even fewer among expat and multilingual households.
Why Teaching About Money Feels Different as an Expat
- Your child may be exposed to new spending norms (cashless cultures, tipping customs, price differences)
- Pocket money or allowance might need to be adjusted for a new currency or cost of living
- Lessons from home (like saving or budgeting) may clash with new cultural attitudes
- Keep conversations open and adapt your financial education to your current country’s
context - Use real-life experiences—grocery shopping, taking public transit, setting up a savings jar or
app
Age-by-Age: What to Teach and When
| Age | Concepts to Introduce | How to Reinforce |
|---|---|---|
| 3–5 | What money is, making choices | Let them hand over coins at the shop |
| 6–9 | Needs vs. wants, saving for goals | Use a clear jar or digital piggy bank app |
| 10–13 | Earning money, tracking spending | Introduce allowances or chore-based rewards |
| 14–18 | Budgeting, debit cards, online safety | Set up a junior banking account with limits |
Download our full Age-by-Age Money Talk Guide for conversation starters and activity ideas
Tools to Make It Easier
- Revolut Junior or GoHenry accounts for kids
- Apps like iAllowance, RoosterMoney, or FamZoo
- Use your home language for values discussions, even if schooling is in another language
Studies show that kids who discuss money at home regularly are more likely to save and less likely to be in debt by adulthood.
Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Consistent
Even one simple money conversation a week can plant the seeds of financial confidence.
Involve your kids in real decisions—comparing prices, budgeting for a family outing, or saving for a toy. The more real-world the lesson, the stronger it sticks.
Download the Age-by-Age Money Talk Guide