The Challenge

Elementary-age children (Grades 2–6) often lack exposure to foundational financial concepts, yet research shows that money habits begin forming as early as age 7. Traditional approaches rely on worksheets and passive instruction — leaving abstract concepts like budgeting and saving disconnected from kids’ lived experiences.

My Approach

I designed a three-module Rise 360 course featuring Max and Mia, two AI avatar characters who guide learners through real-world money scenarios. Each module uses age-appropriate storytelling, branching activities, and hands-on challenges:

• Module 1 – Needs vs. Wants: Max and Mia visit a store and decide what to buy with limited money, modeling the distinction between necessities and desires.
• Module 2 – Saving & Spending: Learners set a savings goal and track progress using drag-and-drop budgeting activities to build decision-making skills.
• Module 3 – Earning & Budgeting: Kids explore simple ways to earn money and practice allocating income across saving, spending, and giving.

AI avatar videos keep engagement high, while knowledge checks and scenario-based practice reinforce retention. The course is self-paced and optimized for both classroom and at-home use.

Outcomes

Built as a Modern Parent Zone original, the course is designed for parents and teachers to use together. Post-activity surveys showed strong engagement across all three modules, with learners consistently able to identify needs vs. wants and explain a simple saving plan after completing the course.