Who's the Boss of You?

Name: _________________________________________

Date: __________________________________________

What I Am Saving For: _____________________________

Where I Got or Spent Money	Amount (Add money  you get. Subtract  money you spend.)	How Much Money I Have Now
(Example 1: Piggy Bank)	+$7.00	$7.00
(Example 2: Allowance)	+$5.00	$12.00
(Example 3: Bought Gum)	-$2.00	$10.00

Keep a Spending Log

It's easier to keep track of your money if you make a handy spending log. First, write down any money you get, like allowance or gifts. Then, subtract the cost of anything you buy. You might decide to buy fewer things so you can watch your money grow. And whenever you add money to your savings account, we'll pay you interest so your money can grow even faster!

Make a Wish List

It's hard not to spend money. But two little tricks can make saving easier. First, when you go places, leave your money in a safe place at home or in your savings account. Second, instead of money, bring a wish list along. (Bring something to write with, too.) When you see something you want, don't buy it – write the item and its price on your list. After a few days, check out your list. You will probably have changed your mind – or even forgotten – about some of the stuff on your wish list. Deposit money in your savings account, and before you know it, you can make your wishes come true!

Sam wanted to buy a scooter. He figured out how long he would have to save his allowance. "I can do it!" he thought. But each week, as soon as he got his allowance, he found other things to buy. "I'll NEVER save enough money to buy my scooter," he told his sister. "You should do what I do," she said. "Make a spending log and wish list."

A Sample Wish List

Name: _________________________________________

What I Want to Buy	Price	LATER: Do I Still Want It? (circle yes or no)	Did I Buy It?
(Example 1: Doodle Diary and Stickers)	$7.00	Yes No	Yes No
		Yes No	Yes No
		Yes No	Yes No
		Yes No	Yes No
		Yes No	Yes No
		Yes No	Yes No
		Yes No	Yes No