1. A warm coat when yours no longer fits
Why? __________________________________
Free activity · Ages 6–8 · Try it together
Need or want? Let’s think it through.
Two categories are not always enough. Talk through six everyday situations, choose need, want or it depends, and explain why. The goal is to describe a choice, not collect points.
How to play
- Describe a need as something that helps us stay safe, healthy or able to take part in everyday life. Talk about wants as preferences that can make life enjoyable.
- Read each situation aloud. Invite the child to choose an answer and give their reason. Use the discussion prompt that appears to explore the idea further.
- Change one detail: would the answer change if an item broke, could be borrowed or had another safe alternative? Avoid labeling wants as bad or saving as always good.
No signup or personal details needed. Choices are not sent anywhere and reset when the page reloads.
MINIWEALT · Needs and wants
Circle a choice and explain why: Need / Want / It depends
0 / 6 situations discussed
2. A new toy when you already have one you enjoy
Why? __________________________________
3. Lunch on a school day
Why? __________________________________
4. A special-brand bottle when your bottle still works
Why? __________________________________
5. A bus ticket to reach school
Why? __________________________________
6. A book for a class activity
Why? __________________________________
One last question
Which situation might someone else answer differently? Why?
miniwealt.com · An original free activity for household and single-classroom use.
Choose the next small step.
For a broader activity sequence, explore the 52-page Choice Trail workbook. For one saving goal, try the 10-page Saving Quest. The printable files on Etsy are in English.
Further reading for families: CFPB Money as You Grow. This is an original MINIWEALT activity, not a CFPB endorsement or partnership.