11/26/2025
Is third grade too early to learn about smart money management? What about fifth grade? 📚
Last week, I had the chance to find out while participating in the Great American Teach-In at Grady Elementary School (a public school in the Tampa Bay Area’s Hillsborough County).
In each class, I presented the kids with the following challenge:
“Your team has $200 saved up - from birthdays, holidays, and chores. I'm going to show you things you could buy. Your team decides: BUY or PASS. Your tracker writes down what you buy and subtracts it from the $200.
But here's the catch. At the end, something will break, and you'll need money. Let's see which team is ready!"
Then I called out a list of items the kids could buy, with prices - some necessities, some playthings, and some name-brand items that “everyone” had. 🛍️
When the shopping spree was over, I told the kids they needed $50 for an emergency. Those who had enough left to afford it survived; those who couldn’t did not.
That led to a lively discussion about spending decisions, where I coached the kids to ask themselves these three questions before buying anything:
💰Do I actually need or want this, or do I just want what everyone else has?
💰Is the expensive version really better, or am I paying for a brand name?
💰Will I still be happy I bought this in a month?
Believe it or not, this is the kind of conversation I have every day with families seeking financial guidance. Those who spend money to impress others are rarely happier for it. Instead, they ALWAYS stress about money. Those who buy what they actually need and want, without worrying what others think, typically have enough saved for emergencies and the fun stuff they really care about.
It is NEVER too early to learn this lesson, especially as we head into the holiday season!
