Teach Your Children the Value of Saving
Good saving habits are the foundation of creating a smart financial strategy, and it’s never too early to develop these habits. If you want to teach your children the value of saving smart, open a youth account with American First Credit Union.
Safari Club
Start Saving Habits Early
The Safari Club savings account is designed for children up to 12 years old and focuses on teaching your child the value of saving money. Open a Safari Club account in your child’s name to get started.
- $5 opening deposit to earn interest
- Earn higher interest than most savings accounts
- Make unlimited deposits on your child's behalf
- Fill your child's piggy bank and use our in-branch Coinstar machines
Start Smart
Turn Habits Into Goals
Our Start Smart savings account gives your 13-17 year old teen the ability to set a savings goal and continue to learn smart saving habits. It’s a simple way to build confidence with money early, while developing lifelong financial skills and responsibility.
- $5 opening deposit to earn interest
- Earn higher interest than most savings accounts
- Unlimited deposits
- Start saving for a car, college expenses, and more
Coverdell IRA ESA
Build an Education Fund
Plan ahead for your child’s education with a Coverdell IRA Education Savings Account. Save for qualified expenses like tuition, books, and more from elementary school through college while keeping flexibility to transfer unused funds to another family member if needed.
- Maximum contribution is $2,000 per year per child
- Can be rolled over to another relative if not used by the original individual named
- Can be opened as an IRA Savings or Certificate
Youth Savings Rates
As of 05/01/2026
| Account | Opening Deposit | Minimum Balance for APY | Dividend Rate | APY |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safari Club (Age 12 or Younger) | $5 | $5 | 0.25% | 0.25% |
| Start Smart Savings (Ages 13 to 17) | $5 | $5 | 0.25% | 0.25% |
APY = Annual Percentage Yield. The rate may change after the account is opened and is accurate as of the last dividend declaration period.
IRA Savings Rate
As of 05/01/2026
| Account | Opening Deposit | Minimum Balance for APY | Dividend Rate | APY |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IRA Savings |
$50 |
$500 |
0.05% |
0.05% |
APY = Annual Percentage Yield. There is a $10 IRA Maintenance fee per year. The rate may change after the account is opened and is accurate as of the last dividend declaration period. Fees could reduce earnings. Refer to Schedule of Fees & Services for details.
Resources for Kids & Teens
American First Credit Union believes in hands-on learning when it comes to managing your finances. Here are some great resources we offer to teach your children the basics of financial responsibility.
biz Kid$
Biz Kid$ is a national financial literacy initiative where kids teach kids about money and business. Use this resource-rich website to let your kids have fun on the computer while learning valuable life lessons.
American First Blog
Get the latest savings tips for adults and kids on our blog. We'll keep you informed on the latest updates and provide insight into wise financial decision-making practices.
Bite of Reality
Bite of Reality is a hands-on, app simulation event American First hosts for teens. This interactive activity teaches teens about the challenges of living on a budget.
