Truity Credit Union Blog

So your kid has a debit card now—exciting, right? It’s a big step toward independence! But along with the freedom to spend comes the chance to accidentally blow through their money without even realizing it.

That’s where simple systems can save the day. A few easy habits can help your child stay on track and make smart choices with their spending—without you needing to hover over every purchase.

Why systems work

Kids (and honestly, adults too) tend to do better with clear guidelines. When they have a plan, they’re way less likely to spend $50 on snacks and wonder why they have nothing left for the weekend.

Here’s how to set up some helpful, no-stress systems:

1. The “3-Part Split” Rule

Before they swipe their card, teach them to divide their money into three simple categories:

• Spend (for fun stuff)
• Save (for bigger goals)
• Give (if you want to encourage generosity)

2. Weekly Money Check-Ins

Once a week, help them take five minutes to:

• Look at their balance.
• Review what they spent.
• Decide if they want to move money between categories.

Keeping it short and simple makes it feel doable. You could even do your own check-in at the same time so it feels like a team effort.

3. Set “Fun Money” Limits

Together, agree on how much they can spend just for fun each week. If the card balance is $60, maybe $20 goes toward snacks, games, or outings. Once it’s gone, it’s gone—no refills until next week.

This helps them learn to pace their spending, so they don’t blow it all in one day.

4. Use Real Examples

When they overspend (because it happens!), talk through what went wrong without making them feel bad.
Example: “Looks like you spent $30 on takeout last weekend. Was it worth it, or would you rather have saved some for the movies this week?”

Mistakes are part of learning. The goal is to build better habits over time.

Bonus Tip: Make It Even Easier with Greenlight

Want a tool that helps keep all this organized? We’ve got you!

We offer Greenlight to our members for free*. Greenlight is an app designed just for kids and teens, where they get their own debit card while parents can keep an eye on things.

With Greenlight, you can:

• Add money straight to their account.
• Set up automatic saving and spending categories.
• Track their spending in real time.
• Let them play in-app games that teach smart money habits.
• Use both a savings account and checking account, all in one spot.

It’s a super easy way to give kids some financial freedom while keeping the safety net in place.

Get started with Greenlight.

*Truity Credit Union members are eligible for the Greenlight SELECT plan at no cost when they connect their Truity Credit Union account as the Greenlight funding source for the entirety of the promotion. Subject to minimum balance requirements and identity verification. Upgrades will result in additional fees. Upon termination of promotion, customers will be responsible for associated monthly fees. See terms for details. Offer ends 01/25/2026. Offer subject to change and partner participation.