This activity supports Lower Key Stage 2 Maths and PSHE objectives by helping children practise adding, estimating, and comparing costs. It encourages decision-making, prioritising, and understanding that money is limited - key skills for financial literacy.
What you’ll need 🪙
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A budget (e.g. £10 or £20).
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Paper, pencil, or a notes app to make a list and add totals.
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In person shopping or online shop examples for realistic prices.
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Optional: a calculator for checking totals.
What to do 🎉
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Set the scene. Tell your child they’re in charge of planning a small party - maybe a birthday, picnic, or movie night. Their challenge: plan everything they need without going over budget!
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Make a list. Ask them to write down what they’d like to include - e.g. snacks, drinks, decorations, games, or party bags. Together, look up or estimate prices for each item at the supermarket or online shops.
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Do the maths. Help your child add up the total cost of all their items. If they go over budget, encourage them to reassess their choices.
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Adjust and finalise. Once they’ve stayed within budget, celebrate their planning - and talk about why managing money well helps people make fun things happen.
Questions to ask your child 💬
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“What do you want to spend the most money on, and why?”
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“What could you cut out or replace to stay within your limit?”
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“If your budget doubled, what would you add?”
What your child will learn 🎓
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To add and subtract money values accurately.
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To plan within a set budget and prioritise spending.
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To compare prices and look for value.
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To understand that choices affect what you can afford.