---
title: Expert Advice for Parents on Saving Money
description: Many families are looking for ways to save money. It can be challenging, but creating fun experiences doesn't have to be expensive.
---

[First Federal Bank Blog ](https://blog.ffbf.com)

# [Expert Advice for Parents on Saving Money](https://blog.ffbf.com/expert-advice-for-parents-on-saving-money)

 Written by [First Federal Bank](https://blog.ffbf.com/author/first-federal-bank) | April 22, 2026 2:00:00 PM Z

Many families are looking for ways to save money. It can be challenging, especially when you have children. But creating fun experiences – and teaching kids important lessons about money – doesn’t have to be expensive.

Abi Foster, a financial expert, author and advocate for making money matters more accessible, says everyday family activities can be a powerful opportunity to help children develop healthy financial habits:

***Plan ahead for family holidays***

*Planning ahead can make a significant difference to [family budgets](https://blog.ffbf.com/expert-advice-on-how-to-actually-stick-to-your-budget), particularly during busy periods such as school holidays.*

*"School holidays are expensive because everyone travels at the same time," Foster says.*

*Booking attractions, transport, or accommodation early can help reduce costs. Travelling at quieter times – such as early mornings or less popular days like Sundays – can also make trips more affordable.*

***Set a clear holiday budget***

*While family trips can create lasting memories, Foster warns some parents feel pressured to overspend.*

*"And that can lead to huge credit card bills when people spend outside their means," she says. "Setting a holiday budget at the start of a trip can help families [stay on track](https://blog.ffbf.com/plan-ahead-for-holiday-expenses-and-save). Mixing a few paid activities with free outings can also keep costs manageable."*

*Ultimately, Foster says, children remember the experiences they share with their parents, more than the amount spent.*

***Look for free activities where you live***

*Despite rising costs, Foster says there are still plenty of free activities families can enjoy, but many parents simply don’t realize they exist.*

*"A lot of parents say to me, 'There’s nothing free anymore,'" she says. “But there actually are loads of free options.”*

*Museums across major cities frequently host free events and activities, particularly for families. Signing up for mailing lists can help parents stay informed about upcoming programs.*

*Other free options include beaches, walking trails and local parks. Libraries are another overlooked resource.*

*"Libraries spend a lot of time creating events for kids, especially during school holidays," Foster says. "There are reading events, activities and even apps where you can access audiobooks."*

***Turn everyday moments into money lessons***

*[Financial education](https://blog.ffbf.com/teach-your-kids-about-budgeting) doesn’t need to feel like a formal lesson. Foster encourages parents to [build money skills](https://blog.ffbf.com/are-you-ready-to-open-your-childs-first-savings-account) through everyday activities.*

*"One of the best things parents can do is create games that work within their own life," she says.*

*For example, supermarket shopping can become a budgeting exercise. Parents can give children a small budget and ask them to choose items while keeping track of how much they have left.*

*"It helps them understand the difference in prices and what they can afford with the money they have," Foster explains.*

***Look below eye level when grocery shopping***

*Small changes to [shopping habits](https://blog.ffbf.com/5-little-known-tips-to-help-you-save-on-groceries) can also reduce weekly spending. One simple trick is to look below eye level on supermarket shelves. *

*"Supermarkets put the most expensive products at eye level because that’s where your eye goes first," Foster explains.*

*Writing a shopping list and planning meals in advance can also prevent impulse purchases. Loyalty cards remain another important tool for saving money.*

*"In many supermarkets, they're the only way you’ll get the best prices," the accountant says.*

*Another idea Foster shares is trying a "cook with what you’ve got" night before doing the weekly shop, explaining: "Families can challenge themselves to create meals using ingredients already in the cupboard, reducing food waste and unnecessary spending."*

Read more of her advice [here](https://go.upcontent.com/a7717fe7-cab7-43de-840a-85177af6c959).

Research suggests children’s financial attitudes begin forming very early. Children absorb how adults talk about money – whether it is seen as stressful, secretive or simply a normal part of life. That means even simple activities, such as writing a shopping list together or discussing household spending, can shape their understanding. 

[View full post](https://blog.ffbf.com/expert-advice-for-parents-on-saving-money)

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