Parents from St Anthony Care Centre in Langa were impressed during the launch of a children’s book called That’s Just Nuts on Wednesday 27 May. The book focuses on educating children about saving money from an early age.

The event, which began with storytelling sessions for children, was organised by Foord Asset Management. Foord Asset Management is an independent, owner-managed boutique investment firm built on the principles of investment stewardship.

Teaching children about saving money

Foord director Bredon Afrika described the event as part of giving back to the community. He said it is important for children to start learning about saving money at an early age.

He explained that the children’s book forms part of Foord’s broader financial literacy initiative, which aims to help children and their families start simple and meaningful conversations about savings.

“It is a series of books published by Foord. We started this initiative seven years ago and this is the third book we have launched. The book targets children between the ages of eight and 14 and teaches money concepts such as saving, investing and drawing in a child-friendly manner that resonates with them and helps them remember these lessons for the rest of their lives,” he said.

Encouraging smart money habits at an early age

Afrika added that their intention is to instil these values and concepts in children’s minds so they can apply them throughout their lives. He said it is important to educate children while they are still young because they are able to absorb information more easily.

The author of the book, Christina Castle, said the book is aimed at children from both urban and rural communities. She said the initiative is not only beneficial for children, but also for parents, who can take what they learn and practise it at home.

“It is important that everyone learns, regardless of age. According to research we conducted, we found that parents can also benefit greatly from the books. Saving money is not easy,” said Castle.

Parents welcome financial literacy initiative

Parent Andiswa Manxiwa described the initiative as educational, saying they were taught how to save money.

“They taught us that it is important to know your goals and stick to them. They said we must not allow peer pressure to mislead us,” said Manxiwa.

She added that she hopes such initiatives can be brought to communities more regularly.