We use simulations like Mad City Money and The Money Game to teach students about personal finance. These are programs that put financial education into action with real-life experiences.

Depending on the age group the students that attend the Mad City Money simulation may receive an “about me” sheet that contains an occupation and salary, student loan debt owed, credit card debt owed, and cost of medical insurance. Some students will have a spouse, some will be single, and all of them have at least one child. Students build a monthly budget based on their incomes. They travel around Mad City making decisions about housing, clothing, food, transportation and other needs. There is a mall for wants and a credit union or bank for financial services. In all, they visit nine merchants around the city. They also receive an unexpected windfall and an unplanned expense from the Fickle Finger of Fate. Students learn how to write checks, how to use credit cards, and balance a checkbook. They learn how to budget their money and that they may not be able to afford the high-end items.

The credit union or bank is the one place that students may get help. When visiting these we talk about the importance of paying yourself first.  We speak to them about setting savings goals such as a rainy day fund or a retirement account or even a college fund for their kids. Sometimes they come to the credit  union or bank because they are out of money and have not purchased clothes or food yet. In these cases, we review what they have purchased and make suggestions about returning that brand new SUV or the huge house they cannot afford. It is a safe environment for students to make good choices, fail, and learn from their mistakes.

Each merchant will try to sell students on the most expensive products available at that table. For example students visiting the Mall could “buy” big-screen televisions, motorcycles, boats and more.
We know your child no mater the age will have fun learning about money. Sign up TODAY before the session fills up.