From Lunch Money to Life Skills: Why Your Child Needs a Debit Card
Published on January 6, 2026
•3 min read
As you check off your back-to-school shopping list—new shoes, notebooks, and maybe a fresh backpack—there’s one item you might not have considered: a debit card and bank account for your child.
It might sound like a grown-up move, but in today’s world, it’s becoming more of a necessity than a luxury. Here’s why:
School Spending Is Going Digital
From the cafeteria to the school bookstore, many schools are moving away from cash. Whether it’s buying lunch, snacks, spirit wear, or tickets to the school dance, kids are increasingly expected to pay with a card or mobile wallet. A debit card gives them the flexibility to manage these everyday expenses safely and independently.
Cash Is Out, Convenience Is In
Let’s face it, kids lose things. Cash is easy to misplace and impossible to recover. A debit card, on the other hand, can be locked instantly if lost and monitored in real time. Plus, it’s easier for parents to reload funds on the go, especially during busy school weeks.
It Builds Smart Money Habits Early
A bank account and debit card give kids a hands-on way to learn about budgeting, saving, and responsible spending. They can track their purchases, set savings goals, and start to understand the value of money, all with your guidance. It’s a practical life skill that schools don’t always teach.
You Stay in Control
Modern youth banking tools come with built-in parental controls. You can set spending limits, get alerts for every transaction, and even approve or block certain types of purchases. It’s a great way to give your child some independence while keeping a watchful eye.
It Prepares Them for the Future
Whether it’s managing a summer job paycheck or saving for a big purchase, having a bank account helps kids feel more confident and capable. It’s also a great way to introduce them to digital banking, mobile apps, and financial responsibility in a safe, supervised environment.
A Smart Option: Greenlight at Metro Credit Union
If you’re looking for a trusted, kid-friendly way to get started, Metro Credit Union offers its members a free* subscription to Greenlight, a debit card and mobile app designed specifically for families.
With Greenlight, your child gets a secure debit card, and you get powerful tools to manage their spending, set savings goals, and teach financial literacy, all in one place.
It’s a simple, smart way to help your child grow into a confident, capable money manager—just in time for the new school year.
Before the Bell Rings
Back-to-school season is about more than just pencils and paper. It’s about preparing your child for the real world—and that includes money. A debit card and bank account might not be traditional school supplies, but they’re powerful tools that can set your child up for success far beyond the classroom.
*Metro Credit Union members are eligible for the Greenlight Free plan at no cost when they connect their Metro Credit Union account as the Greenlight funding source for the entirety of the promotion. Upgrades will result in additional fees. Upon termination of promotion, members will be responsible for associated monthly fees. See terms for details. Offer ends 05/26/2027. Offer subject to change or renewal.
Greenlight is a financial technology company, not a bank. The Greenlight app facilitates banking services through Community Federal Savings Bank CFSB, Member FDIC.
