What is table-top economic education?

Tabletop economic education is an educational method that fosters economic concepts and financial habits in children by naturally discussing the value of money and the economy during family mealtimes. It is a method traditionally valued in Jewish families in which parents and children constantly talk and practice making choices and decisions within a limited budget, and foster the ability to spend in a planned and careful manner.

 

·    At family dinners, talk naturally about the value of money, spending and saving, and responsibility.

 

·    Consider together the value of the item the child wants and the time and effort required to obtain it.

 

·    Emphasizes the importance of moderation, responsibility, and sharing, and teaches not only economic attitudes but also life attitudes.

 

·    Parents serve as role models and demonstrate practical ways to manage money, income and expenditure, and the value of labor in real life.

 

·    Talk about economic topics during mealtimes, such as “What did you spend today and why?”

 

·    Think about and discuss real-life cases such as money management, savings, and spending plans.

 

·    Parents should be open about their financial choices and experiences.

 

Economic education at the dinner table is an effective economic and character education method that can be practiced in everyday life without any special preparation.