Mini-Lesson 1: Saving for the Future

• PRINT
• EMAIL

Objectives:
Students will understand:

• The importance of developing a plan for saving
• The difference between short-term and long-term goals

Materials:

• Mini-Lesson 1 Printable (PDF): "Saving for the Future"
• Bonus Activity 2 Printable (PDF): "Superheroes Save"
• Kids Save Activity Printable (PDF): "Save Responsibly" (Ages 6-8)
• Kids Save Activity Printable (PDF): "Save Responsibly" (Ages 9-11)
• Resource: Worksheets Answer Key (PDF)
• Resource: Standards Alignment Chart (PDF) 
• Family Resource: Family Activity Booklet (PDF)

Click for whiteboard-ready printables.

DIRECTIONS:
Time Required: 10 minutes

1. Ask students why it's important to save money. How does saving help us reach our goals? How does it keep us safe in the event of an emergency? What would happen if we didn't save money for the future?

2. Explain that saving helps us reach both short-term goals, such as buying a new video game, and long-term goals, such as purchasing a new laptop or gaming system. Help students to understand that short-term goals can be accomplished over days or weeks, while long-term goals may take months or years. Distribute the printable "Saving for the Future" and have students complete the activity.

3. Discuss the answers to the activity. What was Becky's short-term goal? What was Becky's long-term goal? If Becky doesn't buy the tickets to The Pretty Princess and Magic Pony Power Hour, how much money could she save by Week 15? By Week 20?

Extension:
Use these bonus printables to help students further develop their money smarts.

• Bonus Activity 2 Printable (PDF): "Superheroes Save"
• Kids Save Activity Printable (PDF): "Save Responsibly" (Ages 6-8)
• Kids Save Activity Printable (PDF): "Save Responsibly" (Ages 9-11)

These activities can be used as in-class lesson activities or out-of-the-classroom extensions.