Children might think finance is a little dull – why not gamify it?

MAIA co-founder Michael Gilmore and the other judges loved the approach taken by MoneyPrep and gave it a well-deserved MAIAward. “Everyone should learn about money as early as possible. We loved MoneyPrep’s interactive approach, making financial education fun, particularly for younger learners.”

MoneyPrep uses several interactive tools that adapt and change as children grow. They have created an app with fun games that help kids build strong money habits. For those a bit older, the program remains fun but is more in-depth.

Pam Liyanage, the Co-founder and Co-CEO of MoneyPrep explains,

“MoneyPrep is a full spectrum financial literacy program for kids in grades 1-12. We focus on teaching the essential skills that help them build smart money habits for life.

“The children learn how to be a smart consumer and make responsible spending choices, save money and set goals, keep track of money, create a budget and much more,” she says. “Many financial literacy programs have the same goals, but we are different.”

What sets MoneyPrep apart is how the programme has been developed and delivered. The content remains informative, and changes as children grow, with age-specific material that builds on earlier information.

“The content for the MoneyPrep program is developed by some of the industry’s brightest and most experienced minds. We are experts in educational publishing, financial planning, and grade school teaching.

“Our material is age-appropriate for each grade and laser-focused on real-world application. We teach the ‘how to’s’ and answer the ‘why should I’s’”, Liyanage says.

The information is presented in a way that maximises interest.

“In our experience, the best way to engage children with their learning is to make them a part of it. Our approach to financial literacy is to invite kids to become active participants in the program. We have gamified financial education, teaching smart money habits in a fun and modern way that connects with kids.”

Liyanage explains how it works. “For grades 1-6, we offer exciting interactive online and app-based learning games that are not only fun but encourage repeat play. Repetition of skills is what forms habits.

“For grades 7-12, we offer a full set of financial literacy resources to teachers and schools. Our materials are blueprints for what and how to teach with supporting real-world activities that are fun, engaging, and purposeful.”

Although the programme covers grades 1-12, the primary focus is on kids in the 1-6 grade age bracket. “This group is really eager to learn, and it is essential to start their financial journey as soon as possible,” Liyanage says.

“Our program incorporates gamified and interactive learning, and we’re currently launching a virtual world as part of the MoneyPrep digital learning app. This is a way for kids to practice transactions and spending in a safe environment.”

The programme has proved popular, with over 220,000 students learning from MoneyPrep, and over 7 million educational games played. The team continues to develop and expand the programme in partnership with financial institutions, banks, and corporations.

“Money is the universal language. Our core principle is access for any kids and all kids. Our mantra is that when kids enjoy their education, they retain more,” Liyanage says.

MAIA co-founder Michael Gilmore said, “Teaching finance to kids is essential, but they have to be interested and engaged if they are to benefit in a lasting way. We love the approach taken by MoneyPrep and are so pleased to be part of their journey.”

If you want to know more, visit the MoneyPrep website or email us at michael@maiawards.org.