These 6 Books Help Kids Learn About Economics

What is economics? An inquiry into the nature and causes of the wealth of nations? The task of managing a household? The study of man in the ordinary business of life? When theorists and philosophers through the ages have offered very different definitions, how are parents meant to define economics for kids when they ask? Your children might well be wondering about the economy, right now. The current cost of living crisis means the state of the economy is a hot topic. Hearing adults say things like “the economy’s not looking great” may prompt them to question you about it. Thankfully, you don’t have to be an expert to explain economics in terms your kids will understand. These books can help kids of any age get a basic grasp on economics.

1. Johnny’s Decisions by Jeff Felardo. Economics is about more than money. Kids can learn about economics through stories without being exposed to the hard terminology. Economics is about decision making and being fully informed of the outcomes or consequences of your decisions, and the author thinks that most economics principles can be told in an engaging way through the use of stories. The book combines an interesting story about normal life and ideas related to economics.

2. One Hen by Katie Smith Milway. Inspired by true events, One Hen tells the story of Kojo, a boy from Ghana who turns a small loan into a thriving farm and a livelihood for many. After his father died, Kojo had to quit school to help his mother collect firewood to sell at the market. When his mother receives a loan from some village families, she gives a little money to her son. With this tiny loan, Kojo buys a hen. A year later, Kojo has built up a flock of 25 hens. With his earnings Kojo is able to return to school. Soon Kojo’s farm grows to become the largest in the region.

3. Finance 101 for Kids by Walter Andal. One of the most important lessons that you can teach your kids is how to handle their money. Unfortunately, for most parents, giving their kids a sound financial education is an afterthought at best. Frustrated by the lack of resources that apply the concept of finance to real life situations for his own children to learn from, author Walter Andal was inspired to create an informative and entertaining book to help children get on the right path to making smart personal financial decisions.

4. The Berenstain Bears’ Trouble with Money by Stan Berenstain. This classic Berenstain Bears story is a perfect way to teach children about the importance of being responsible with money! Come for a visit in Bear Country with this classic First Time Book from Stan and Jan Berenstain. Mama and Papa are worried that Brother and Sister seem to think money grows on trees. To make money of their own, the cubs decide to start their very own businesses, from a lemonade stand to a pet-walking service.

5. The Tuttle Twins and the Miraculous Pencil by Connor Boyack. What is the free market and why is it so important? Ethan and Emily embark on a fun field trip to learn how pencils are made using parts from all over the world—and how in an economy, people work together in harmony to produce helpful products that improve our lives. Leonard Read’s classic essay “I, Pencil” comes to life in this engaging adventure featuring amazing illustrations to help children become immersed in the story.

6. Economics Through Everyday Stories by Elena Fernandez Prados. A fun and easy-to-understand introduction to economics, Economics Through Everyday Stories from Around the World: An Introduction to Economics for Children is packed with real life examples. This collection of stories from around the world provides an overview of economics 101 in a simple and appealing way which can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. Boost your child’s financial literacy and discover the world with this hands-on guide to economics.

Allison Green
Boston Tutoring Services