Learning critical money management concepts as youth has impact on adult behaviors. Attitudes and habits surrounding financial management are shaped in the home, the community, and in the media. If youth are surrounded by unhealthy financial habits, those habits follow them into adulthood leading them down a difficult path. The Captain Cash youth financial curriculum is designed to teach students basic financial management skills through 4interactive classroom sessions. Each session focuses on a different topic such as earning, saving, spending, and borrowing money. 

The FCS Agent visited three 3^rd grade classrooms at a local elementary school each Friday for a period of 4 weeks. Children were actively engaged in learning and were enthusiastic about each session. Pre vs. post evaluations show that upon the conclusion of the program more students are likely to save all or some of their money when money is earned or received as agift. One of the most significant findings was in needs vs. wants; 72% ofstudents reported spending money on needs before wants compared to 57% beforethe program. Evaluations also indicated that children learned that borrowed money must be paid back. That seemed to be a big learning curve for students. Alsoin regards to borrowing money, students had a better grasp on when borrowingmoney is appropriate. And lastly, after the program, more children reportedtalking with their parents about money.

The Captain Cash program teaches more than basic financial education.Students learn and practice life skills such as communication, decision-making,problem-solving, managing resources, planning, and organizing.