The Invest in ME Reads program provides these resources to help you support your student or child on a path toward lifelong financial wellness.
Featured Book:
Those Shoes
In January each year, all Maine second graders attending public school receive Those Shoes, a story that includes themes of saving, giving, and delayed gratification.
Use this reading guide to make the most of the lessons from this book.
Games and Activities
Explore simple games that help kids practice money skills and start thinking about future goals.
Financial Skills
- Cha-Ching™ Money Smart Kids – Games and videos that build financial skills
- Meet the Money Monsters! – Fun characters who teach kids financial concepts
- Sesame Workshop – Videos and fun lessons
- US Mint – Games, activities and coloring books
- Board games to play for a hands-on activity with children:
- The Game of Life
- Pay Day
- FAME Learning: Printable Financial Skills worksheets for kids
Education and Career Exploration
- Cash and Max Coloring Book – Learn about education and future careers
- MAGtown – Learn more about different jobs in your community
- MyPlan – Create a plan to “do, save, learn”
- PBS Kids A-Z Career Lab – Learn about various careers
- FAME Learning: Printable Education and Career Exploration worksheets for kids
Tips and Tools for Families and Teachers
Find simple, practical resources to help kids build money skills.
Financial Skills
- Every day, you are modeling financial behaviors and teaching financial skills. Make your next visit to the grocery store, bank, or gas station a lesson.
- Teach your child about money and saving for the future by creating ways for them to earn rewards for chores or other behaviors. A reward chart is a great way to get them started on a path to financial success.
Education and Career Exploration
- Show your child that you value education. Getting to know their teacher, attending school events, and making sure they arrive at school on time all demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning.
- Talk to your child about your work, or about other jobs in their community or school. Encourage them to think about what they enjoy doing during their free time.
Resources for Enhanced Learning
- Subscribe to Paper Robots: Helping Families Talk About Money and Work
- Listen to the Raising Maine podcast Money Mindset: Expert advice on how to raise financially savvy kids
- FAME Financial Literacy Activity Workbook
Saving For College
Invest in your child’s future. Learn more about opening a NextGen 529 account.
$500 Alfond Grant for Maine Children
Learn how to use your $500 grant toward future higher education expenses.
