Level 1 freeLoading the game…
How to play
- 1You get a $1,000 pretend paycheck: ten coins of $100.
- 2Tap a jar to drop in a coin. Tap − to take one back. Bills for Needs cost $500.
- 3Press “Live the month” and watch each week, including a surprise expense.
- 4Earn up to three stars, then play again — the surprise changes every time.
Simulation only: all money, companies and prices are fictional. No real money, accounts or trading are involved, and nothing here is financial advice.
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Play nowA budget game for kids that feels real
Build a Budget is a free budget game for kids ages 8 and up. Players receive a pretend monthly income and must give every dollar a job. Then the game plays out the month week by week, with a random surprise, such as a broken phone or a car repair, so kids see how planning ahead pays off.
What kids learn
- A budget is a plan for money coming in and going out
- Needs, like housing and food, usually come first
- An emergency fund protects savings from surprises
- Saving a part of every paycheck adds up over time
Many families use the 50/30/20 guideline as a starting point: about half for needs, about 30% for wants and about 20% for savings. However, it is only a rule of thumb. Real budgets depend on where a family lives and what it needs.
Tips for parents and teachers
Ask players why they chose each amount. In addition, try a second round with less income to start a conversation about trade-offs.