Joannie Maass, Senior Technical Investment Specialist and Riccardo Fontanella, Executive: Group Marketing at Alexforbes
Smart Money Moves for the Save Squad is a new digital children’s book designed to help young readers develop an early understanding of saving, planning and making considered financial decisions. Launched in celebration of Alexforbes’ ninetieth anniversary, the book is a gift to the next generation, reflecting the organisation’s ongoing commitment to building brighter financial futures for South African families. Aimed at children aged 7 to 9 years, it uses engaging stories, practical tips and interactive activities to make learning about money accessible and enjoyable.
The book introduces basic financial concepts through short stories inspired by classic fables. Each story is accompanied by simple activities and reflection questions to reinforce key lessons. The stories were developed by Joannie Maass, Senior Technical Investment Specialist at Alexforbes. Children learn the value of saving for short-term goals, the importance of prioritising needs over wants, and how to plan ahead for future expenses. The format encourages curiosity and engagement, allowing children to explore ideas in a safe, guided way. To further support accessibility, Smart Money Moves for the Save Squad also includes audio. This ensures that children of all abilities and learning preferences can enjoy and benefit from the stories, whether reading independently or listening with family.
‘Financial literacy in South Africa remains a challenge, and early exposure to simple concepts can make a meaningful difference’, says Riccardo Fontanella, Executive: Group Marketing at Alexforbes. “Smart Money Moves for the Save Squad provides families with practical tools to discuss money in a relatable way, helping children form habits that will support them throughout their lives.
The digital format allows the book to reach children across the country, including those in schools and households with limited access to traditional financial education resources. Parents and educators can read the stories together with children or allow them to explore the content independently, supported by the interactive activities.
Each story features relatable characters facing everyday money decisions, such as saving for a desired item or choosing between short-term wants and long-term goals. Activities include simple budgeting exercises, ‘money challenges’, and reflection questions that encourage children to think critically about financial choices. This approach turns abstract concepts into practical understanding while keeping the learning process fun.
Teachers and parents are encouraged to use the book as a flexible educational tool. In classrooms, it can be incorporated into lessons on numeracy, life skills or social studies, while at home it provides a shared space for discussing money matters. The reflection questions and exercises are designed to be easily adapted to suit different learning styles and family situations, making the book a versatile resource for financial education.
While much attention in the financial sector focuses on adults and workplace financial wellness, Alexforbes recognises that good habits formed in childhood can have long-term benefits. By providing children with an early foundation in financial awareness, the book aims to empower the next generation to make confident decisions as they grow.
Smart Money Moves for the Save Squad is freely accessible and intended for practical use by families, schools and community groups. By combining storytelling with hands-on exercises, it makes financial lessons engaging, relatable and easy to apply. Alexforbes hopes that by equipping children with knowledge and confidence early, they will be better prepared to make informed financial decisions throughout their lives.
The digital book can be accessed here.
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