Alvo

Guides

Saving for a Goal: How to Reach Something You Want

Step-by-step guide for kids on picking a savings goal, tracking progress, and staying motivated until you get there.

1 min read

Try the calculator

Put these ideas into numbers with the Kids Savings Goal Calculator.

Open calculator

A savings goal is something specific you are working toward: a book, bike, game, concert ticket, or gift for someone.

Goals work best when they have a dollar amount and a picture in your mind. Vague goals like save more are harder to stick with.

Four steps to hit your goal

Step 1: Pick one goal and write down the price. Step 2: Count what you already saved. Step 3: Decide how much you will add each week. Step 4: Track progress on a chart or app.

Example: A $80 skateboard, $15 saved, $5 per week means 13 weeks to go. Seeing the weeks shrink is motivating.

Staying on track

Put a photo of your goal where you see it. Celebrate small milestones, like halfway there.

If you are tempted to spend save-jar money, wait 24 hours. Often the urge passes. Talk to a parent if you want to change your goal.

Run your numbers

Enter your goal, current savings, and weekly amount in the savings goal calculator. Try different weekly amounts to see how much faster you could finish.

Related Calculators