Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
Many youth today have a hard time distinguishing between “wants” and “needs” when it comes to spending their money.

Response:
The Money Craze curriculum was developed to teach youth how to make wiser choices when spending money. On April 14, 50 Franklin County 4-H members went through six Money Craze stations after playing in the county volleyball games. Brenda Schmitt, NE Area Field Specialist, provided the stations and assisted at the event. Brenda and Senior 4-H members led the activities at the stations that focused on making change, making wise consumer choices, how to budget their allowance, how to write a check, taking a blind chocolate chip cookie taste test, and actually spend money at a snack stand.

Impact:
Several of the 4-H members commented that they had never had to count back change before this event. Parents commented positively about the activity where youth had to add up what they spent in a year on pop and snacks. A number of youth learned they could save money by buying products at a grocery store in quantity verses individually at a convenience store.

Other Staff Involved:
Jackie Dohlman, County Youth Coordinator
641-456-4811
jackied@iastate/edu

Brenda Schmitt, Family Resource Management Field Specialist
641-423-0844
schmitt@iastate.edu

Contact:
Beverly Peters
Franklin County Extension
3 First Ave NW
Hampton, IA 50441
641-456-4811
beverly@iastate.edu