Articles & Questions

Every week I publish a fun new article on a money topic I think you’ll find interesting. I also answer a handful of reader questions. Subscribers to my newsletter get to see everything first — but you can browse some of my past articles & questions on this page.


My Best Articles

Not sure where to start? Below I’ve handpicked a few of my favourites. And if you like what you see, don’t forget to subscribe to my free newsletter to get new issues before anyone else!

Search Articles

Jam Jars Barefoot Admin Jam Jars Barefoot Admin

Show Me the Money

We have three boys, aged 6, 3 and 0, and I would love to introduce your ‘Jam Jars’ with them. But, once we buy the jars (and polish off the jam), where are all these ‘coins’ coming from in a world of plastic banking? When was the last time you had a wallet full of coins?

Hey Barefoot,

We have three boys, aged 6, 3 and 0, and I would love to introduce your ‘Jam Jars’ with them. But, once we buy the jars (and polish off the jam), where are all these ‘coins’ coming from in a world of plastic banking? When was the last time you had a wallet full of coins?

Brendan


G’day Brendan,

I don’t have a wallet full of coins. In fact I don’t have a wallet — I use my Apple Watch.

However, kids are visual creatures, so nothing works as well as shiny coins that clink as they hit a glass jar.

Now to your question: where do I find these relics?

It’s actually not that hard. Every so often when I’m at the supermarket I’ll get $50 in coins, then store them in a tupperware container at home.

Another tip: you may not need a wallet anymore, but your kids do, and you should keep their wallets in your car. That way the next time they bug you for something they can pull out their wallets, count up their money, and buy it themselves.

Scott.

Read More