Barefoot Kids by Scott Pape is an engaging guide to teaching kids essential money skills in a fun and practical way. If you want the kids in your life to develop smart financial habits, this is the book to give them! Teaching kids about money can be challenging, but Pape makes it effortless with relatable examples, hands-on activities, and vibrant illustrations.
This book is filled with inspiring stories from numerous young entrepreneurs who have setup little business (most with a little help from mum and dad) to help themselves achieve their savings goals. The content is hands-on, with step-by-step activities making the book both entertaining and practical for children.
The book is broken up into six ‘steps’ that Pape believes are essential money habits for kids:

1. How to earn some money: Earn extra pocket money by doing extra jobs around the house. The lesson here is that money comes from working.

2. Stash your cash: Learn about the importance of always having money ready to spend on the things you really want through setting up “money buckets” for saving, spending, and giving.

3. Be a Barefoot boss: Numerous kids tell their stories of how they setup mini-businesses to earn extra money.

4. Get what you want: Explains how you can save a lot of money buying what you want second hand, which also makes your money go further.

5. Make someone smile: Learn about how the fastest way to feel good is to help other people (using the giving bucket).

6. Grow your money: Introducing kids to investing and the power of compound interest.
Barefoot Kids stands out for its focus on real-world action, encouraging kids to roll up their sleeves, get hands-on, and learn the value of money through experience. While parents oversee the process, kids take the lead, making it a rare finance book that genuinely engages young readers.