The Save Squad: new digital book teaching children essential money skills

Smart Money Moves for the Save Squad is a newly launched digital children’s book designed to help young South Africans develop financial confidence and foundational money skills from an early age.

Created in celebration of Alexforbes’ ninetieth anniversary, the group says the book is positioned as a gift to the next generation, reflecting the organisation’s long-standing commitment to building brighter financial futures for South African families.

Aimed at children aged 7 to 9, Alexforbes says the book uses short stories, practical tips, and interactive activities to introduce basic financial concepts in a fun and accessible way. Each story draws inspiration from classic fables and is paired with simple exercises and reflection questions to reinforce key lessons. Children learn the value of saving for short-term goals, prioritising needs over wants, and planning for future expenses.

The stories were developed by Joannie Maass, senior technical investment specialist at Alexforbes.

According to the group, the format encourages curiosity and engagement, allowing children to explore financial ideas in a safe, guided environment. To support different learning styles, Smart Money Moves for the Save Squad also includes audio narration, making it suitable for children of all abilities, whether reading independently or listening with family.

“Financial literacy in South Africa remains a challenge, and early exposure to simple concepts can make a meaningful difference. Smart Money Moves for the Save Squad provides families with practical tools to discuss money in a relatable way, helping children form habits that will support them throughout their lives," says Riccardo Fontanella, executive group marketing at Alexforbes.

According to Alexforbes, the digital format ensures broad accessibility, reaching children in schools and households that may have limited access to traditional financial education resources. Parents and educators can use the book as a shared learning tool or allow children to explore the content independently. Each story features relatable characters navigating everyday money decisions, such as saving for a desired item or choosing between short-term wants and long-term goals.

The group says activities include budgeting exercises, money challenges, and reflection prompts that turn abstract financial concepts into practical understanding. Teachers are encouraged to incorporate the book into lessons on numeracy, life skills, or social studies, while parents can use it to start meaningful conversations about money at home. The exercises are adaptable to different learning styles and family contexts, making the book a versatile resource, the group says.

While much of the financial sector’s focus remains on adults and workplace wellness, Alexforbes says it recognises the long-term value of instilling good habits in children. By providing a strong foundation in financial awareness, the book aims to empower young readers to make confident, informed decisions as they grow.

Smart Money Moves for the Save Squad is freely available and intended for use by families, schools, and community groups. Combining storytelling with hands-on learning makes financial education engaging, relatable, and easy to apply, laying the groundwork for a financially confident generation, the group says.

The digital book can be accessed here.

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