Poverty: it is a problem that runs rampant throughout the United States. Not only are families living in unthinkable circumstances regarding food insecurity, health problems, housing inequality, and more, but the children of these households are placed in challenging conditions that may inhibit them from overcoming their situations. So how can we mend these inequalities for the future generation to be prosperous?
Sikhi Alpha’s campaign to ensure equity for these families is unique compared to the incentives of other organizations. Its strategic plan to introduce financial literacy programs within schools is what makes the non-profit distinctive. Sikhi Alpha funds a variety of finance-based lesson plans for grade-school kids, with the belief that true equity will come with strategic education that targets problems such as financial illiteracy.
In early March of 2021, one of Sikhi Alpha’s volunteers, Rebecca Hartman, taught a lesson about financial literacy to kindergarten kids. One may ask, “isn’t that too young of an age to start talking about money?” The short answer: no. For kids living in need-based areas, it is important to start conversations about money and finances at an early age, as it will allow them to become more thoughtful about their spending habits as teens and young adults.
Rebecca began her lesson plan by explaining the different values of coins and bills, and with colorful pictures and graphics, showcased what items cost money and what did not. She then created an activity in which students were given a certain amount of money and told to “spend it” on an item without going over the price limit. Rebecca ended by asking the question “where can one get money?,” with many students engaging in her activities and questions.
Although this lesson plan sounds awfully simple, these activities allow young kids to start thinking about the value of money in their day to day lives, even at a kindergarten level. This ultimately sets them up for success in circumstances where they need to assist their families with finances, apply for their first job, plan for their college education, and more. Financial literacy is key in uplifting those in need, and provides an escape from the situations and systems that keep thousands of children in poverty. It is something that Sikhi Alpha values deeply, and something that must be emphasized further by society.
