SOS-Kinderdorf-Stiftung

Pocket Money to Pocket Apps: Teaching Kids Smart Spending

Munich – October 29, 2026 -- World Savings Day on October 30 is a good moment for parents to talk with their children about wishes, spending and savings goals, and Germany's SOS-Kinderdorf-Stiftung has five practical tips for doing it.

Children and teenagers now meet consumer decisions early, through online shopping, in-app purchases and ads on social networks. The foundation's head, Tilman Bastin, says saving is about more than setting money aside: it teaches children to set priorities, make decisions and take responsibility, especially when a purchase is only a click away.

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Purchases are quick, subscriptions take a few clicks, and personalized ads target young people directly. The foundation says children should learn early to judge prices, question offers critically and decide within a budget.