By Anii Nwizu
Students are gaining valuable life skills through a creative and interactive approach to financial literacy.
In our School Age after-school program at Chief Joseph Elementary, each child is assigned a “job” such as helping with classroom duties or assisting peers. As with all jobs, they earn “paychecks” for completing their tasks, Through this process, they learn how to keep a checkbook, manage their money, and make thoughtful decisions about saving or spending.
By integrating these lessons into their daily routine, the program makes essential skills engaging and accessible, laying a strong foundation for future financial responsibility.
Once a month, excitement builds as “Shopping Day” arrives. The students cash their paychecks at the mock bank and go shopping at the mock store for items like toys, candy, or even temporary tattoos. Older students have the option of stepping into leadership roles by running the store, taking on responsibilities like stocking shelves and working as cashiers.
“I help people check out what they want in the store,” a 5th grade student said. “I enjoy being able to help people, learning about money and keeping track of everything. I think it would be fun to be a real cashier when I’m older. I have a lot of fun during payday.”
These real-world experiences teach collaboration, customer service, and math skills in a fun and supportive environment.
Whether they’re shopping or running the store, every child is learning while having a great time, making the program a true highlight of their week.
