A need, or a lovely want?

Draw food, soap and a new toy.

Which help with daily life, and which are things to enjoy?

Wanting something is not bad; it can go on a wish list.

Sort the pictures into two baskets and discuss how the same item may play a different role in different situations.

Why needs and wants matter

Telling the difference between a need and a want is one of the first money ideas young children can grasp. A need helps us live day to day, such as food, clean clothes or soap. A want is something we would enjoy, such as a new toy or a treat. Both are part of life. This activity, for children aged about 3 to 5, helps them notice the difference without feeling that wanting things is wrong.

How to run the activity

  1. Draw or cut out pictures of a few everyday items: food, soap, a toothbrush, a toy, a balloon, a book.
  2. Set out two baskets or two sheets of paper labelled “helps every day” and “fun to have”.
  3. Let your child sort each picture and explain their choice.
  4. Put any “fun to have” items they really like on a wish list on the fridge.

Talking points

  • What would happen if we had no soap? What if we had no new toy?
  • Can something be both? A book can be fun and also help us learn.
  • When is a sweet a want? Could food ever be a want rather than a need?
  • What is on your wish list, and how could we plan for it?

The last instruction in the story is the most important: the same item can play a different role in different situations. A warm coat is a need in winter and may be a want if you already have one. Let your child explore these ideas; there is no need to reach a perfect answer.

Linking it to saving

Once there is a wish list, a child can start saving toward one item. Keep the goal small and close, so they feel the satisfaction of reaching it. A piggy bank with a clear window lets them see progress, which keeps young savers motivated. Supervise coins with young children and keep small items out of reach.

Try another short activity next: A first coin’s little journey, or browse Kids & money stories.

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