Days 1-3
Day 1: Introducing the World of Finance
During our summer program, the Dreamership Initiative welcomed eager young minds from 1st to 6th grade to embark on an exciting journey into the world of finance. Through engaging activities and fun lessons, we introduced the children to the basics of managing money, comparing it to managing a big treasure chest. They learned that just like filling up and using a piggy bank, finance involves earning, saving, and spending money wisely.
The children were introduced to the concept of budgeting, understanding it as making a plan for their money. We likened budgeting to planning a fun day out, where they must decide how to allocate their resources to maximize their enjoyment. This helped them grasp the importance of prioritizing expenses and making thoughtful financial decisions.
Day 2: Exploring the Power of Money
On the second day, we delved deeper into the power of money. The kids discovered how money can be used not only to buy necessities and fun items but also to save for future adventures and assist those in need. We emphasized that money is a powerful tool that can help them achieve their goals and make a positive impact on their community.
Through interactive lessons, the children learned to differentiate between needs and wants, set goals for future savings, and make informed financial decisions. They practiced setting aside money for both immediate and future needs, understanding the value of saving for unexpected expenses and long-term goals.
Day 3: Understanding Interest and Loans
The third day of our program introduced the children to the concepts of interest, principal, and loans. They learned that interest is the extra money earned or paid when borrowing or saving money, and the principal is the initial amount of money involved. Through simple explanations and engaging activities, the kids understood how banks operate and the significance of interest rates.
We used practical examples to demonstrate how loans work, showing the importance of responsible borrowing and repayment. The children calculated the interest on hypothetical loans, helping them grasp how borrowing costs accumulate over time. This lesson was crucial in teaching them the long-term impact of financial decisions and the importance of managing debt wisely.