Tips: How to read the Little Economists Series

Teaching kids about money is one of the most valuable lessons we can share, but it’s not something that happens overnight. Just like learning to add or subtract takes practice, repetition, and real-life application, understanding financial concepts requires the same dedication. That’s where the Little Economists series comes in. These books are designed to make financial literacy fun and accessible, but helping kids truly absorb the lessons takes a little extra effort—and it’s worth it.

Start with the basics: When introducing the Little Economists series to your kids, start with the basics. The first book, What Is Money?, is the perfect place to begin. It lays the foundation for understanding what money is, why we use it, and how it plays a role in our daily lives. As you read with your kids, pause occasionally to ask questions like, “What do you think money is used for?” or “Can you think of a time when you used money?” Relating the lessons to their own experiences helps make the concepts stick.

Reading these books once might give your kids an introduction, but to truly understand the ideas, expect to read them several times. Kids learn through repetition, and each time they revisit a book, they’ll notice new details or connect the story to a real-life situation. For example, after reading What Is Supply and Demand?, you can explain how toy prices rise during the holidays when everyone wants the same thing. Or, you can point out how items go on sale when there’s too much supply. These real-world examples bring the lessons to life and help kids see how money concepts work in everyday situations.

One of my favorite moments with my own child was when he saved enough money to buy a toy he had been eyeing for weeks. He earned the money by walking our dog, and when we went to the store together, he was so proud to pay for it himself. On the way home, he asked if he could walk the neighbor’s dog to earn more money. That moment wasn’t just about the toy; it was about him realizing that effort leads to rewards and that opportunities to earn money are all around us if we look for them. It was a huge confidence boost for him and a reminder for me of why these lessons matter.

The Little Economists series is also a great way to start conversations about money. After reading How to Spend Wisely, you might ask your child, “What do you think is the difference between a need and a want?” or “If you had $10, how would you spend it?” These questions encourage critical thinking and help your child connect the stories to their own decision-making process.

It’s important to let kids explore these lessons at their own pace. Each book focuses on a specific topic—like credit cards, inflation, or spending wisely—so give your child time to absorb one concept before moving on to the next. The beauty of the series is that it grows with them. You can revisit the books as your child gets older, helping them understand the lessons on a deeper level as they encounter new financial experiences.

Remember, teaching kids about money isn’t just about the books—it’s about creating opportunities for them to apply what they’ve learned. Whether it’s letting them save for a goal, make small spending decisions, or observe how prices change, these real-life applications reinforce the lessons in meaningful ways.

The Little Economists series is an incredible tool to spark your child’s curiosity about money, but the real magic happens when you take the stories off the page and into the real world. Read together, talk about the lessons, and let your kids experience the joy of achieving financial goals. Over time, you’ll see their confidence grow as they understand not just how money works, but how they can use it to make smart decisions and achieve their dreams.

So, grab a copy of the Little Economists series and start your child’s financial literacy journey today. It’s a gift that will last a lifetime.