In a new survey released in December, Americans said they want to save more and spend less in 2012. JA’s programs teach youth important financial lessons such as how to save and how to budget through interactive and engaging kindergarten through high school programs.
This is the third straight year that the top two resolutions are saving more and spending less in the survey measuring shoppers’ financial goals. On the 2012 New Year’s list, paying off debt jumped to the third spot; last year it was the seventh most popular resolution.
The results of the survey demonstrate that now is the time to prioritize your finances and to become a more financially responsible consumer. JA has the tools necessary to instill responsible spending and savings habits and to help prevent bad habits before they begin. Our programs help young people become financially responsible adults.
According to the survey, 46 percent of people who are considering a financial resolution for 2012 say saving more money is their top priority. The median annual target savings amount is $2,400 for long- and short-term goals, which doubles last year’s goal of $1,200.
The new survey results imply that people are eager to take control of their finances. But you should not have to undertake this challenge alone. JA is here to help teach children how to proactively manage their finances. Youth need to understand early on why it is important to maintain good credit and have a savings account.