Set Successful Back-to-School Routines with Fern

As summer winds down and the school year approaches, families everywhere are gearing up for the return of early mornings, homework, and packed schedules. Establishing a solid back-to-school routine can make all the difference in helping kids transition smoothly—and Fern can be your secret weapon in making those routines stick.

Fern is our free online tool  in Digital Banking and the Columbia CU app that links to your kids account so you can incentivize tasks and chores, reward good grades, and more—all while teaching them about spending, savings, and earning.

Why Routines Matter

Routines provide structure, reduce stress, and help kids know what to expect. From setting out clothes the night before to carving out time for homework and chores, a consistent schedule builds confidence and independence. But let’s be honest—getting kids to follow routines isn’t always easy. That’s where Fern comes in.

Turning School Routines Into Rewards

Fern is a free financial education tool from Columbia Credit Union that helps kids learn money management through real-life experiences. With Fern, you can assign tasks like:

• Packing their backpack each night
• Completing homework before screen time
• Helping with lunch prep
• Getting ready on time in the morning

Each completed task can earn them a money incentive or award within the Fern tool. Fern turns everyday routines into exciting opportunities for kids to earn and learn.

Build Financial Habits Early

Fern doesn’t just help with routines—it lays the foundation for lifelong financial literacy. As kids earn, save, and spend with Fern, they begin to understand the value of money, budgeting, and delayed gratification. With Fern, school routines become rewarding—and your kids become routine rockstars.

Fern is available for free within Digital Banking. Just log in to get started!