Improving Financial Literacy in Early Childhood Through Storytelling and Needs-Wants Simulations :

Olivia Rostandy; Candra  Sinuraya; Tan Lilyani; Laurent  Anastacia; Ibrahim Mufiq  Defito; Elvanza  Romneya

doi:10.29062/engagement.v10i3.2368

Olivia Rostandy Universitas Kristen Maranatha
Candra Sinuraya Universitas Kristen Marnatha
Tan Lilyani Universitas Kristen Maranatha
Laurent Anastacia Universitas Kristen Maranatha
Ibrahim Mufiq Defito Universitas Kristen Maranatha
Elvanza Romneya Universitas Kristen Maranatha

DOI: https://doi.org/10.29062/engagement.v10i3.2368

Keywords: Early Childhood Education, Financial Literacy, Saving, Simulation, Storytelling

Abstract

Background: Financial literacy is important to introduce from an early age because children still have limited understanding regarding saving behavior, money management, and the distinction between needs and wants. This community service activity focused on implementing storytelling and needs-wants simulations for early childhood learners at Pelita Fajar Kindergarten.

Purpose of the Study: This study aims to examine the application of storytelling and simulation methods in improving financial literacy among early childhood learners.

Methods: This community service activity applied a service-learning approach with a descriptive-evaluative one-group pre-test and post-test design. The stages included needs identification, preparation of storytelling and simulation materials, implementation of storytelling, educational games, shopping and saving simulations, and evaluation through observations, pre-test and post-test assessments, and documentation.

Results: The findings showed improvements in children’s financial literacy understanding after the activities. Two indicators that were initially in the neutral category improved to the agree category in the post-test results, particularly in distinguishing between needs and wants and delaying gratification. Children also showed active participation and enthusiasm throughout the activities.

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