Financial Literacy doesn’t have to be boring: Learning through books games and apps

In a world where financial literacy is becoming increasingly important, learning good money habits from a young age is something that should not be ignored. Fortunately, there are engaging and effective ways to make this process enjoyable for young minds. Financial books and games specifically designed for children can play a significant role in shaping their understanding of money, savings, and responsible spending, while making the whole experience fun too. In this article, we explore the magical combination of financial books and games for kids and how they can set the stage for a financially savvy future.

Learning through reading

By now, we are already aware (and hopefully have copies of 😊) the Money Champions book. This book helps readers understand basic money concepts and takes them through the journey of earning, spending and save money using easy-to-understand and practical methods.

Learning through games

  • Monopoly: A classic board game that teaches kids about buying, selling, and investing in properties. It also introduces concepts like rent and mortgages. This costs about R150 to R700 depending on the version, available at shops like Checkers, ToysRUs, Takealot, Game etc.
  • The Game of Life: This game simulates various life stages, including education, career, and retirement. It is a great way to teach kids about the financial consequences of their life choices. The game costs around R1700 on Takealot, and a good thing is can be played by the whole family.
  • Greenbean Learning Resources Play Money Single Pack – Madiba: This game focuses on teaching kids about different money values and counting money. It’s a fantastic tool for building basic math and financial skills. The game costs R179 on Takealot website and R99 on Takealot App.
  • Payday: This board game introduces kids to the concept of monthly expenses and budgeting. Players must manage their money wisely to make it through the month without going broke. This game cost R780 on com

Hint: You can ask someone to buy you any of these games as either a birthday or Christmas gift 😊.

Learning through visuals and discussions

  • This you can do by watching content the Money Champ YouTube channel (The World of Money Champions) or joining the Money Champions FinLit Programme. Currently a copy of the Money Champions book gets you free entry into the programme.

Learning through apps

  • Downloading Nedbank’s Chow Town which is described as ‘is a unique tycoon-style game designed to offer children aged 9 to 12 a fun way to learn important financial lessons.’
  • Download Capitec’s Livin’ it Up game which is described as a game that ‘choice to play different characters, all trying to reach their dreams. Use savvy money management to deal with work and life events, including load-shedding, while trying to save enough money to reach your characters’ dreams.’

Nothing stops a Money Champion from combining all forms of learning: i.e., reading books, playing board games, and embracing games that are available digitally. You can never have too much of money management knowledge.

Also, watch the space. Money Champions could soon be playing in the board game and digital game space – God willing.

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