Learning and earning
As the stock market tumbled and unemployment skyrocketed this year, Americans saved more of their disposable income than ever — including $6.15 trillion in April alone.
Kids responded exactly the same way. Greenlight says 37% more children used the app to set savings goals during the pandemic, and together they put away $51.5 million this year.
“Setting a goal and working toward it is a really big deal, especially that very first savings goal that they set and achieve,” says Sheehan.
Of course, some tasks on Greenlight are easier than others. “Put on deodorant” won the title of most unique chore this year.
“We’ve seen some really hilarious submissions from parents,” Sheehan says. “‘He’s never held the vacuum in his life before, and he’s vacuuming the whole downstairs because he wants to earn money for a skin on Fortnite.’ I think that’s really healthy.”
Ready to boost your savings?
Click here for the best savings accounts! Discover top rates and no-fee options to grow your money effortlessly.
Start saving smarter today!Spending and sharing
When it comes time to spend all that hard-earned money, a Greenlight card allows kids to buy whatever they want — within the guidelines parents set in the app. While Walmart was the most popular outlet for kids in 2019, this year it was ordering food off DoorDash.
But kids didn’t just spend their money on themselves; they also donated a significant portion of their allowance to charity. In fact, donations through Greenlight’s Give feature increased by 78% between March and April, with No Kid Hungry receiving the most donations.
“Greenlight kids set aside $7.6 million for charity,” Sheehan says proudly. “They’re smarter than we realize, they observe more than we realize, and I think they recognized during the pandemic that people needed help.”
If you’re looking for a simple yet effective way to teach your kids about spending, saving and giving, Greenlight costs $4.99 a month for up to five kids. If you sign up now, you’ll get your first month free.
The richest 1% use an advisor. Do you?
Wealthy people know that having money is not the same as being good with money. Advisor.com can help you shape your financial future and connect with expert guidance . A trusted advisor helps you make smart choices about investments, retirement savings, and tax planning.
Try it now
