Where Do We Keep Money?

October 1, 2010

Gr 2-5-These titles try to introduce money management to children, but the language is confusing and too simplistic. In the banking book, interest is mentioned for savings accounts but not covered when credit cards or even loans are described. There is no mention of debit cards or online payments. In What Do We Buy?, Nelson states that "A teacher, a plumber, and a server in a restaurant provide services." A farmer also provides a service even though he sells tomatoes, a good. The cook in a restaurant does both, provides a service (cooking) and provides goods (the food). These examples muddy the explanations. However, the description of wants and needs will jump-start classroom discussions, and the colorful pictures and design are appealing to children. But practice with money and real-life experiences will teach economics better. These books just aren't detailed enough to do the job.-Erlene Bishop Killeen, Stroughton Area School District, WI

Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.