Big Spender

Mini ChaNJes™

Cute cartoon ice cream cone with a smiling face, blue ice cream with colorful sprinkles, in a waffle cone.

“Hey! I’m Big Spender!

I love fun stuff — treats, toys, and things that make me smile. But I’m learning that smart spending means enjoying today and thinking about tomorrow. Let’s practice making spending choices we feel good about later.”

The Smart Spending Mission

Learn how to tell the difference between wants and needs and make thoughtful spending decisions.

Mission 1: Needs vs. Wants

  • Write down 5 things you spend money on or want to buy

  • Label each one as a Need or a Want

  • Talk about why each one fits that category

Mission 2: Pause Before You Buy

  • The next time you want to buy something, wait 24 hours

  • Ask yourself:

    • Do I really need this?

    • Will I still want it tomorrow?

  • Write down your answer

Mission 3: Set a Spending Limit

  • Choose a spending limit for the week (any amount)

  • Track what you spend

  • Try not to go over your limit