Clarendon first grade learning financial literacy

Clarendon first graders in Mrs. Wann’s class have been learning the basics of financial literacy through a game called “The Game of Life.”

Through this process, the kids have learned about income. They receive a paycheck for coming to school (it is their job). For expenses, they pay rent, cleaning charges, and other bills weekly. They also practiced savings; they tell the bank how much money they want to put into savings each week.

Students have seen an inflation of prices, unexpected expenses arise, and on Fridays they shop in the classroom store with the money they have left. If they do not have money, they have learned how to barter for their needs.

Learning the difference between needs and wants, as seven-year-olds, they have learned that wants are the fun things, but their needs are the most important.

To top off the game Mrs. Zonkger’s high school accounting class came a couple of days and played Jr. Monopoly with the students.

“This has been such a fun game and eye-opening experience for these littles,” Mrs. Wann said.