December: Holiday Shopping
Gift-giving season can add up, but planning and budgeting can help you with holiday shopping — this month’s principle.
Create a Budget
Creating a budget for holiday gifts is the first step — sticking to it the second. And don’t forget to include taxes and shipping.
Use Cash
Using cash, rather than plastic, helps you avoid mindless spending. You can put the cash budgeted for holiday gifts in an envelope to keep your spending in check.
Give from the Heart
Some of the best gifts are homemade. Baked goods and crafts add a personal touch to the season — while helping you save.
Resources
To help you master this month’s principle, check out the National Standards in K-12 Personal Finance Education and Jump$tart Clearinghouse, or get started with a few free resources from our National Partners including: