Dollars and Cents: 11 Picture Books About Money for Children
by Dena McMurdie
Some people have an intuitive relationship with money. They know how to earn, budget, save, and make interest work for them. But for most people, managing money is a skill that you must start learning in early childhood.
These titles offer many lessons about money, from how it’s made to how you spend it. Whether you’re looking for books to use in the classroom or at home, you’ll find some excellent resources here.
-
Money, Money, Honey Bunny!
Available from:It’s never too early to teach your child about financial responsibility. This early reader book introduces preschoolers and kindergarteners to the concept of earning, saving, and spending money. The vibrant colors, adorable characters, and simple text make it a good pick for young children.
(Ages 2 - 5)Also available from: -
Bunny Money
Available from:Purchasing birthday gifts for friends and relatives is often a child’s first experience with money. Toddlers and preschoolers will love this charming story about Ruby wanting to buy a gift for her grandmother. With its simple math problems wrapped in an engaging story, this book is educational and relatable.
(Ages 3 - 5)Also available from: -
Max's Bunny Business
Available from:Sibling rivalry, economics, and competition combine in this humorous story featuring preschool favorites Max and Ruby. When Ruby and her best friend Louise open a lemonade stand to earn money, they refuse to let Max participate. So, Max opens his own business selling forgotten Halloween candy and gives his sister some competition for their customers’ money.
(Ages 3 - 5)Also available from: -
The Berenstain Bears' Trouble with Money
Available from:Join the Bear family as they learn the value of hard work and money. When their parents decide they need hands-on experience with money, Brother and Sister try various business ideas and odd jobs to earn extra cash. It’s the perfect way to introduce young readers to work, money, and financial responsibility themes.
(Ages 3 - 7)Also available from: -
Lemonade in Winter
Available from:Hosting lemonade stands is a rite of passage for many children — but timing is everything. This adorable picture book introduces children to entrepreneurship, money, and finances. With plenty of money to count, and lessons in tracking expenses, profit, and marketing, this book is a must-have for any self-starter.
(Ages 3 - 7)Also available from: -
Little Daymond Learns to Earn
Available from:From Shark Tank star and FUBU founder Daymond John comes a story of a boy who uses his talents, creativity, and community to start a t-shirt business after finding a music poster he wanted but couldn't yet afford. Follow along with your little ones as they learn essential money concepts in this inspiring story.
(Ages 4 - 8)Also available from: -
One Cent, Two Cents, Old Cent, New Cent
Available from:Children will love learning about money’s history with their favorite hat-wearing feline. The Cat guides young readers through the centuries, from bartering in ancient times to modern-day banking and minting.
(Ages 4 - 8)Also available from: -
Money Madness
Available from:Before children can appreciate the value of money and use it responsibly, they need to understand why we have it. This picture book explains the concept of currency and economics to young children in easy-to-digest terms. It’s perfect for teaching children what money is and why we need it.
(Ages 4 - 8)Also available from: -
No Money? No Problem!
Available from:Most children will relate to this story. It’s about a young girl who wants to buy something but doesn’t have enough money. To afford her purchase, she learns to barter with other people. It’s a fantastic lesson in economics, supply and demand, and finding creative ways to afford items you want.
(Ages 5 - 7)Also available from: -
Follow the Money!
Available from:Even if they don’t use pocket change themselves, curious kiddos will love experiencing a day in the life of a quarter. This picture book takes readers through the quarter’s minting, numerous transactions, getting lost, and getting found. It’s a humorous story that keeps kids smiling while teaching them about money.
(Ages 5 - 8)Also available from: -
A Bike Like Sergio's
Available from:This picture book delivers an essential lesson about honesty and doing the right thing, especially with money. It’s about a young boy who finds someone else’s cash. His family always needs more money, and the boy struggles to decide whether to keep, spend, or return it.
(Ages 5 - 8)Also available from: -
Money Math: Addition and Subtraction
Available from:Practice is essential to become proficient in adding and subtracting money. This engaging book teaches children how money works, how to recognize coins and bills, and gives them opportunities to try out what they learn.
(Ages 6 - 9)Also available from:
