Registration is free, but even without registering you can still access printables and interactive online resources that expand the story and support learner financial literacy. Circle time is the perfect place to begin, especially if educators are lucky enough to have an interactive whiteboard or tablet. The online book includes “pullout” activities — the kinds of things you might find stuffed in a pocket on a book page — that are ready to go with a click.
The story and its support materials are designed for use in the UK, but editable pages in the Educator Sample make this program accessible to educators who’d like their learners to learn with another country’s money. A few quick cut and paste actions can tweak activities to your needs.
Although the program is focused on financial education, the activities, from the printables to the storybook, can be worked into your subject blocks during a school day, including math and reading time, or even as a free play option thanks to the digital shopping game. The site’s Dino News articles can be used to circle back, review, and continue learning even after the unit’s done. These blog-style articles ask deeper questions, connect to bits of the story, and include assembly ideas. Note, though, that the assembly includes an optional Christian prayer.
Teaching the basics of what money is and how it’s used is the perfect place for young kids to begin their journey toward financial health. Lesson opportunities grow from there and while saving is an option, the program takes a softer approach, allowing learners to spend what they’ve earned to learn a bit about balancing wants and needs. The handy resources surrounding the game and book offer chances for learners to grow their knowledge and skills. All of these resources, as well as the book and game, make sure to keep everything within kids’ developmental reach, and focus on reinforcing learning and building cross-curricular connections.
While educators won’t find the robust customizability, reporting, and accessibility options (beyond audio narration) that they might find in other tools, Milo’s Money is still a compelling, ready-to-go package that can fit in most classrooms.
Website: https://milosmoney.co.uk/
Overall User Consensus About the App
Learner Engagement
Characters are relatable and lovable. Learners won’t get bored thanks to a nice mix of interactive activities and games, the companion book, and even a potential assembly.
Curriculum and Instruction
Sets young learners off on a journey into financial health. The game and book mixture is sure to connect. Cross-curricular lesson ideas provide enough content for a whole unit.
Customer Support
There’s audio narration and some FAQs, but in-game support and feedback is limited. Everything is user friendly and there are lots of extensions.
