Pre-teens and just-teens are moving seriously into abstract thinking and can project possible outcomes with ease. When armed with the knowledge of how to proceed, they are ready to take on some adult tasks. This workshop uses the publication Shaping Up Your Financial Future, which features 16 lessons focusing on topics such as the economics way of thinking, the importance of an education, money management, saving, investing, and credit. These middle school lessons give students the information and the confidence they need to set goals and research options. The lessons also involve students with the larger community, a transition from school world to real world that sixth to eighth graders welcome. Students also learn that many personal finance decisions require them to use their mathematics skills.

Presenters: Bonnie Meszaros and Barbara Emery

Audience: Grades 6-8 recommended

Participants receive: The new Financial Fitness for Life 6-8 publication, lunch, creative lesson ideas and networking with colleagues