What's the best way to start your children saving?

YOU'RE NEVER TOO YOUNG TO LEARN SOME GOOD MONEY HABITS, SAYS ELLA WALKER

- 

MOST children love the idea of a piggy bank - they're cute, you can name them, they look good on a shelf. But how many kids actually stash their birthday money in them anymore?

The principle behind them still remains solid though, saving, at any age, is "a really important thing to do" says Jackie Spencer, senior policy and propositions manager at MaPS (Money and Pensions Service). "Even just putting aside a small amount."

A couple of quid here and there can really build up over time, and "as well as obviously having some money put aside, it also teaches saving habits to children" which will stand them in excellent stead for the future.

In fact, it's never too early to start getting to grips with your finances and putting money away. "We've done research that shows children can develop money habits between ages three to seven," says Spencer. "So that's why it really doesn't matter about the amount of money."

Set aside an amount that's affordable