Dear Educator,

Welcome and thank you very much for your interest and participation in this effort to teach financial literacy to teenagers.

Teen Money 101 is an introduction to financial education that every teen should have, especially in these challenging economic times. The book is formatted in a ‘Lights, Camera, Action’ format. The ‘Lights’ section introduces the new terms in the chapter; the ‘Camera’ section depicts the teenagers’ story; and the ‘Action’ section provides activity to enforce the chapter’s concepts.

Teenagers today are not taught about money in a structured way. Based on the current world economic crises, what a unique time to teach our teenagers about money and finance and therefore prepare a generation to be financially responsible adults.

This workbook is intended for teenagers (ages 13 to 18). However, it can be used by any age group, as long as there is an understanding of money and exchange.

It is intended that this workbook be primarily used in a facilitated classroom setting, in schools or after-school programs. However, due to the narrative style, this workbook can be used by individual teens as a self-guided text or with adult guidance.

The workbook was discussed with Focus groups and classes were conducted for teenagers. These were very, very well received. The following are some of the comments from students:

-          This will teach me life skills to manage money

-          This will help us to have a better life

-          This will also help us to help our families

-          This is a skill everyone should have

This Teacher’s guide is written in a format that will enable easy implementation. The intent is to streamline and integrate the concepts of Personal Financial Education so that the teacher / educator has a one-stop place for the base materials. It is intended that the teacher / educator would supplement this work with current economic information from various sources, particularly well-respected financial websites.

This guide has been used by many teachers / educators over the years as the author has taught Professional Development workshops on the subject of ‘Teen Financial Literacy’ and used the contents of this guide. Professional Development workshops have been presented at the organizational and university levels.