
Smart Money Budget Challenge
A 4-Week Financial Literacy Adventure Grade 6-7 Resource Class Learning to Budget, Save, and Spend Wisely

What is Money Management?
Money management means making smart choices with your money It includes earning, spending, saving, and tracking your money Good money management helps you reach your goals Everyone needs these skills - even kids!

Financial Terms Challenge
Match the term to its definition: Budget - A plan for how to spend and save money Income - Money you earn or receive Expense - Money you spend on something Savings - Money you keep for the future

Your Classroom Economy
You'll have a job and earn Smart Money each week You must pay 'rent' for your desk and other bills Track all your income and expenses in a ledger Make choices about spending and saving

Income vs. Expenses
{"left":"Money coming IN to you\nYour weekly job pay\nAllowance from home\nMoney from chores","right":"Money going OUT from you\nDesk rent payment\nClassroom supplies\nFun activities"}

Budget Planning Workshop
Step 1: Calculate your total weekly income Step 2: List all your weekly expenses Step 3: Subtract expenses from income Step 4: Decide how much to save Goal: Income should be greater than expenses + savings

Why Save Money?
Think about something you really want to buy How long would it take to save for it? What if you had an emergency? How does saving money make you feel more secure?

Tracking Your Smart Money
Use a ledger to record every transaction Write down when you earn money Record every time you spend money Check your balance regularly Keep all receipts and records organized

The Budget Challenge Timeline

Your Financial Future Starts Now
'A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went.' - John C. Maxwell You have the power to control your money! Every smart choice you make today builds a better tomorrow