Free printable play money for kids

Little kids learn money with their hands, and play money lets them practice without the worry of losing the real thing. These free printable bills are clearly marked as play money, and they're the right size for small hands and money jars.

What's in the play money printable?

• Page 1: ten $1 bills. These are the ones young kids use most, because the allowance Calm Money Kids suggests splits into whole dollars up to age 10.
• Page 2: four $5 bills, four $10 bills and two $20 bills for older kids.

Each bill shows its amount in big numbers, one of the four Calm Money Kids jar icons and the words "play money only." Print on card stock if you can, because the bills last much longer.

Games to play with the play money

1. Fill the four jars. Give your child the same number of $1 bills as their age and split them into Grow, Dream, Spend and Give. The four jars worksheet shows the split for each age.
2. Play store. Put prices on a few toys or snacks and let your child buy them. Kids learn that money is traded for things and that it's gone once it's spent.
3. Make change. For older kids, pay for a $3 item with a $5 bill and ask how much should come back.
4. Count to a goal. Pick a pretend goal, like $12, and let your child count up to it using different bills.

Common questions about play money

When should kids move from play money to real money?

Play money is great for learning the idea, and real money is better for the habit. Once your child knows what the bills are worth, try real dollars in the jars, because holding real money helps them take it seriously.

Is it okay to print play money?

Yes. These bills are an original design, they don't look like real money, and they say "play money only."

Can I use these in my classroom?

Yes. They're free for home and classroom use, and you're welcome to print as many as you need.