Ages 4-7: Making Spending Decisions

The objective of this lesson is to introduce structured spending decisions to assist young children in making choices. Also helping children recognize that money comes in limited amounts.

• Gain self-confidence in making decisions
• Analyze simple alternatives
• Develop rational behavior patters
• Practice making decisions in structured situations

Ages 8-11: Money Responsibility

The objective of this lesson is to recognize various tools and methods to keep a budget balanced, and to think about what happens when attention to money is neglected.

• Apply math skills to balance a spending plan
• Recognize the importance of keeping purchase records
• Gain an understanding of spending behavior patters

Ages 12-17: Saving and Investing

The objective of this lesson is to introduce the advantages and disadvantages of common savings and investment vehicles and show the short- and long-term effects of various savings and investment vehicles.

• List and prioritize some of your short- and long-term budget goals
• List and explain some of the advantages of saving money
• Understand the concept of “pay yourself first” and list some ways to encourage this habit
• List and explain the differences among common savings methods
• Understand the advantages and disadvantages of popular investment vehicles
• Understand what investment fraud is, and list some of the ways you can protect yourself against investment swindlers
• Compare and contrast the short- and long-term consequences of investment decisions

Want to learn more?  Visit www.incharge.org/financial-literacy

6 Meridian is a group comprised of investment professionals registered with Hightower
Advisors, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser. Some investment professionals may also
be registered with Hightower Securities, LLC (member FINRA and SIPC). Advisory services are
offered through Hightower Advisors, LLC. Securities are offered through Hightower Securities,
LLC.
This is not an offer to buy or sell securities, nor should anything contained herein be construed
as a recommendation or advice of any kind. Consult with an appropriately credentialed
professional before making any financial, investment, tax or legal decision. No investment
process is free of risk, and there is no guarantee that any investment process or investment
opportunities will be profitable or suitable for all investors. Past performance is neither indicative
nor a guarantee of future results. You cannot invest directly in an index.
These materials were created for informational purposes only; the opinions and positions stated
are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily the official opinion or position of Hightower
Advisors, LLC or its affiliates (“Hightower”). Any examples used are for illustrative purposes only
and based on generic assumptions. All data or other information referenced is from sources
believed to be reliable but not independently verified. Information provided is as of the date
referenced and is subject to change without notice. Hightower assumes no liability for any action
made or taken in reliance on or relating in any way to this information. Hightower makes no
representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the
information, for statements or errors or omissions, or results obtained from the use of this
information. References to any person, organization, or the inclusion of external hyperlinks does
not constitute endorsement (or guarantee of accuracy or safety) by Hightower of any such
person, organization or linked website or the information, products or services contained
therein. 
Click here for definitions of and disclosures specific to commonly used terms.