Last year, children in the U.S. spent $36 billion! So you already know how to spend. But do you know how to be a smart money manager? Here are some tips.

How many of you watch a TV commercial or see an ad in the paper and want to buy something that was advertised? Advertising is when companies use TV, radio, newspapers, magazines, billboards, and the Internet to talk about their products. Don't worry, you're not alone if you have. In fact, advertisers are counting on you to buy their goods and services!

And if you do buy something, whether it's a good or a service, you are a consumer. To be a smart consumer, you must learn how to make the most of your money.

First, make a list of what you want to buy and then decide what you want the most.

Next, draw a picture of this on a SPEND MARKER and put it in your SAVE jar or in the SAVE slot of your Money Savvy Pig. You can make your own SPEND MARKER by using this one as an example. Or, print out this page and cut it out.

Then, look at your spend marker in the next couple of days. If you still really want what the things on your marker, it's time to investigate. Visit the store to check out the price of your item and see what it looks like.

Finally…you have to become a price detective.

How to Become a Price Detective
Cut out coupons (Coupon Surfer is a good site), look for sales, go on the Internet, and compare prices. After you are sure your detective work is complete, go ahead and spend if you STILL want what you saved for. If you don't want it anymore, then keep on saving your money. You have just given the "gimmees" a time-out! Good for you! If you still want the item, buy it at the place you find that charges the least amount of money for it, and keep some of your hard-earned money for yourself!