As students head back to school this fall, families are stocking up on supplies, organizing schedules, and preparing for another year of learning. While academic success remains the focus, there is another subject that deserves a place on every student's back-to-school checklist: personal finance.

Reading, writing, and math are essential building blocks for a successful future. Understanding how to budget, save, and make smart financial decisions is equally important. The earlier children begin learning about money, the more confident and prepared they can be when faced with real-life financial choices.

According to a 2025 survey conducted on behalf of American Bankers Association Foundation, 87% of Americans believe financial concepts should be taught in high school, while 72% say they would be better off financially if they had learned personal finance basics at an earlier age. The survey also found that families play an important role in financial education, with 38% of consumers saying they learned the most about money from relatives.

The good news is that meaningful financial lessons do not require a classroom. Some of the most effective conversations happen during everyday moments.

A trip to the grocery store can become a lesson about budgeting and the difference between needs and wants. Receiving an allowance can help children learn how to save toward a goal rather than spending immediately. Even discussions about household bills can help young people understand the importance of planning ahead and managing money responsibly.

American Bankers Association encourages parents and grandparents to begin these conversations early. If a child is old enough to ask for a toy, a treat, or a game, they are old enough to begin learning basic money concepts that can serve them throughout their lives.

Talking openly about saving for future goals, budgeting for everyday expenses, and making thoughtful spending decisions helps children build good financial habits. These lessons not only support future financial success but also encourage responsibility and help build confidence.

As this school year begins, parents and caregivers have an opportunity to help children become book smart and money smart. The lessons may seem small today, but the impact can last a lifetime.

For additional financial education resources, visit the US Treasury Department's website at mymoney.gov.

Newtown Savings Bank is committed to helping young people build strong financial habits. Schools, youth groups, and community organizations interested in scheduling a free financial education workshop are encouraged to contact the bank via e-mail at community@nsbonline.com.

About Newtown Savings Bank

Newtown Savings Bank is a community bank headquartered in Newtown, Connecticut, with over $1.8 billion in assets. The Bank has been deeply committed to its customers and the community since 1855. It has 15 branches located in Newtown, Bethel, Bridgeport, Brookfield, Danbury, Monroe, Oxford, Shelton, Southbury, Trumbull, and Woodbury, along with New Haven Regional Lending Center in Hamden, Conn. For more information and location details visit NSBonline.com or call 800-461-0672. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.