From Piggy Banks to Nest Eggs: Financial Wellness at Every Stage of Life

Financial wellness is a holistic approach to managing finances that emphasizes confidence, control and informed decision-making. It’s a lifelong journey that evolves alongside one's changing responsibilities and priorities. From learning the value of a dollar in childhood to maintaining security in retirement, each stage of life offers opportunities to foster financial health and peace of mind. For Financial Wellness Month, we’re highlighting helpful resources from the Banzai Interactive Library to support financial well-being at every step.

Getting Started (Ages 8 – 13)

During these formative years, children begin to learn building block concepts of money and how it works. Parents and guardians can jumpstart a child’s financial wellness through intentional education and creating safe spaces to learn and ask questions. Our first resource provides practical guidance on how to teach children about spending, saving, investing, and opening their first account. Read here: Teaching Children About Money

Looking for a safe, fun way for your child to practice their brand-new money skills? In this 60-minute game, kids (ages 8-12) will create their own lemonade stand, navigate real-world financial dilemmas and save up their cash for a big purchase. Play here: Banzai Junior

First Paychecks, First Choices (13-18)

Teenage years introduce first jobs, first cars and first independent financial decisions. In this 80-minute simulation game, players choose their path and save money to register at Vanderbilt Community College. This interactive experience teaches teens the next level of financial responsibility: budgeting, expenses, and unforeseen challenges. Play here: Banzai Teen

Whether saving up for your first car or grinding through college applications, loans are an important part of reaching early financial goals. This simple, informative article teaches teens how to borrow smartly, repay with confidence, and prepare for the future. Read here: Borrowing Basics: How Loans Work

Finding Your Financial Footing (18-35)

Early adulthood is shaped by major life transitions, like entering the workforce, pursuing higher education, living independently and, for some, starting a family. No matter which path one chooses, strong credit health is crucial. This Banzai interactive coaching session helps young adults understand how credit works while building and improving credit with confidence. Read here: How Do I Build Credit

Many young adults, whether attending college or striking out on their own, will rent a place to live. Understanding a few key principles of renting can help make the process smoother, save money, and protect long-term financial well-being. Read here: Renting Rulebook

Marriage is a major milestone that calls for thoughtful planning and open communication. Before the big day, take time to review insurance, budget, financial goals and more. Banzai’s wedding checklist could save couples money and reduce nuptial stress, making the wedding that much sweeter. Read here: Financial To-Dos for Newlyweds

Expecting a child? This Banzai tool estimates the cost of an infant's first year, allowing prospective parents to prepare with confidence. Calculate here: Preparing for a Baby

Balancing It All (35-60)

Midlife means balancing competing financial priorities: family, work, homeownership, debt repayment, caring for aging loved ones and more. Without a strategy, paying off debt while maintaining financial wellness can be difficult. Learn about debt relief, repayment strategies, credit repair, and more with this Banzai article. Read here: How to Manage Your Debt: Strategies & Tools

According to the National Association of Realtors, the average age of first-time homebuyers in 2025 was 40 years old. In a competitive housing market, Banzai’s mortgage resources provide a comprehensive guide to homeownership. From down payments to closing costs, explore what financial wellness means for your home. Read here: Buying a Home: Exploring Your Options

The passing of a loved one is an emotional and challenging life event. Managing documents such as certificates, wills and insurance claims while coping with grief can feel overwhelming. If you are responsible for settling a deceased loved one’s affairs, this article offers a simple checklist and practical guidance on how to navigate the process. Read here: Financial Steps After the Death of a Loved One

Enjoying What You’ve Built (65+)

After a long, successful career, retirement feels within reach…but important decisions remain, from retirement age to healthcare options. Banzai providescalculators and guidance to help retirees make informed decisions and plan for a comfortable, secure retirement. Read here: Making Critical Retirement Choices

Regardless of an estate's size, having a will is essential for protecting you and your loved one’s financial future. Learn what wills are, how they work, the different types of wills, and how to draft or change a will in the article below. Read here: Wills
 

Though needs and priorities change over time, the goal of financial wellness remains the same: feeling confident, informed, and prepared to make healthy fiscal decisions. Whether you’re a pre-teen learning how to save or a senior citizen embracing retirement, C&N is here to help you reach your financial goals.