This summer, Royal’s Financial Education Team focused on bringing hands-on financial literacy to youth programs across the Chippewa Valley. We connected with children in grades K-8 across several Boys and Girls Clubs and YMCA locations in Menomonie, Eau Claire, Altoona, and Chippewa Falls to make money management both fun and meaningful.
At the Boys & Girls Clubs, students in grades 2-8 explored key financial concepts in age-appropriate lessons. These included identifying the different features of currency and estimating prices of common store items to help them understand spending and saving. They even took part in a fun budgeting challenge where they competed to build the tallest tower using limited funds.
Similarly, at the YMCA locations, children from K-6th grades engaged in interactive lessons, including recognizing currency features, and guessing prices on store-bought items to build their financial awareness.
The students were enthusiastic and highly engaged in the activities, making learning about money fun and impactful. We believe that teaching good spending and saving habits early lays the foundation for a lifetime of financial success.
By the Numbers:
- Boys & Girls Clubs (Menomonie, Eau Claire, Altoona, Chippewa Falls): Approximately 170 students participated in 8 interactive lessons tailored for grades 2 -8.
- YMCA Locations (Eau Claire Downtown, Eau Claire Sports Center, Chippewa Falls): Approximately 350 students engaged in 12 lessons designed for children in grades K-6.
Each 45-minute lesson included interactive games and a take-home worksheet to extend learning beyond the classroom. As a thank-you for their participation, students were given either a sweet treat or a pair of sunglasses – perfect for summer fun!
