According to 2021 Experian data, the average American holds a debt balance of $96,371.  Young people will pick up and emulate the relationship with money and spending habits of the adults in their lives. This may set them up for lifelong financial struggles.   A 2017 T. Rowe Price Survey stated that 69% of parents admit they are reluctant about broaching the topic of finances with their children.  To help set kids on the right path, Shelby County 4-H provided a Money Matters program to 588 students in 4^th and 5^th grades.

The program taught by Shelby County 4-H Agents emphasized paying for needs before wants, the importance of saving money for emergencies, and making smart financial decisions.   The program also highlighted the connection between educational levels, career choices and salaries.  As a result of the program, 91% of the participants indicated that they understood the importance of paying for their needs before their wants and 87% of the students felt that it was important to have money in savings.  Additionally, 70% of the 4-Hers said they have thought about a future career that would help they pay for the things they need and want.   Many of the youth shared the information they learned with others, with 210 saying they talked to someone about what they had learned during the program.

Some of the comments on a survey one month after the program included:

“I think it is important to save money because you may need that money for later expenses.”

“I learned about how to be responsible with money and not waste money on random stuff.” 

“I learned that I need to think before buying something I want.”

“I learned that 4-H teaches us how to spend and save money wisely.”