TOPIC:

Using Money to Help Others

RESOURCES NEEDED:

Copy of the movie “Richie Rich”

LEARNING OPPORTUNITY:

Children are growing up in a material world. It is important for them to appreciate that money doesn’t buy everything. In this movie, Richie realizes that he has found the true treasure in life, the one thing that money can’t buy: friends. It also teaches the importance of using money to help others.

THE ACTIVITY:

• Before watching the movie, discuss with your child what they think it would like to be the richest kid in world. What would they do with their money if they were the richest?
• Enjoy the movie and talk about what they learned about money by watching it. Ask them if they think Richie, as the richest kind in the world, had everything a boy could ever want. Do they think being the richest kid causes any problems? If so, what kinds of problems? Explore what your child learned by watching the movie.

FOLLOW UP IDEAS:

• View another movie, “Toy Story 2.” It teaches children that old things have value, and that love is far more important than riches or wealth.
• You may wish to discuss with your child why it is that some people have more money than others.
• You may also want to talk with them about the times they are happiest and explore the ways in which happiness is not linked to having money.