9 Week Online Curriculum
Kick off Dollar Detectives with an introduction to the program and the 4 Jars framework: Save, Spend, Share, and Invest.
Kids learn what a budget is and practice dividing their own $10 into Save, Spend, Share, and Invest using hands-on jars and worksheets.
Students discover why saving matters and what an emergency fund is, comparing piggy banks, savings accounts, and high-yield savings through simple stories and examples.
Kids find their own "money fingerprint," setting a savings goal and learning the basics of inflation through a hands-on shopping simulation.
A game-based week covering income vs. expenses, taxes, and the different ways people save for the future, from bank accounts to retirement plans.
The "Magic Pennies" activity brings compound interest to life, showing kids how small amounts of money can grow surprisingly fast over time.
Through role play and real-life scenarios, kids practice adjusting their money plans when unexpected expenses pop up.
Students learn that money mistakes are chances to learn, practicing how to revise a budget after an unplanned cost.
Kids learn to barter and trade fairly through a classroom marketplace activity, then apply the same skills to negotiating chores and allowance at home.
Students reflect on their financial literacy journey, share their money story, and celebrate becoming certified Dollar Detectives.
Suggested readings, printable worksheets, online game links, and extra activities to reinforce each week's lessons.
Suggested readings, printable worksheets, online game links, and extra activities to reinforce each week's lessons.