Elementary Programs 

Ourselves

JA Ourselves uses storybook characters in read-aloud and hands-on activities to introduce the role people play in an economy.

Through engaging activities, young students learn about individual choices, money, the importance of saving and giving, and the value of work. The program also provides an introduction to Canadian coins and bills.

By the end of this program students will have a basic understanding of needs and wants, and the importance of working and saving money to meet those needs. This introduces students to the importance of becoming responsible consumers in their local economy.

Our Families

JA Our Families explains how family members’ jobs and businesses contribute to the well-being of the family and of the community.

The learning experience introduces the concept of needs and wants and explores the ways families plan for and acquire goods and services. Students analyze their own skills to determine ways they can support their families. The program also familiarizes students with Canadian coins and bills, while providing a brief introduction to key personal finance tools such as credit and debit cards.

Our Community: Needs, Jobs & Tools 

Through “Needs, Jobs & Tools”, students explore how their needs and wants are met through various jobs in the community, as well as learning about important tools used in various occupations. A hands-on exploration of the money circle links how jobs and tools meet our needs.

More Than Money

*Program available virtually

The earlier students learn how to manage money, the greater their chances of lifelong financial success.

According to a study by the JumpStart Coalition for Financial Literacy, only 26% of 13-21-year-olds said their parents taught them how to manage money. This gap is not being addressed by schools, as many don’t have the resources to offer classes in financial literacy. JA has designed the More than Money program to address this challenge. With the assistance of volunteers from the local business community, the program teaches elementary students about earning, spending, sharing and saving money.

Our Business World

*Program available virtually

Students are often taught that success means “getting a good job” after graduation. Many are not aware that launching a business is a viable career option that can bring them amazing opportunities.

However, starting a business is not a career option that most children are encouraged to consider. In JA’s Our Business World program, elementary students explore how businesses are created and what makes them thrive. Using games and multimedia, students learn about innovation, start-ups and self-employment.

A Business of Our Own

*Program available virtually

Entrepreneurs drive the Canadian economy, strengthen communities and create jobs. However, children are often not encouraged to become entrepreneurs.

In JA’s newly updated A Business of Our Own program, students put on entrepreneurial hats and run their own retail business. Students learn how to start a business, produce and promote their products, track their finances and manage a team. Volunteers from the local business community use experiential blended learning and game-based technology to engage students and ignite their passion for business. In addition to in-class lessons, budding entrepreneurs are now able to continue learning at home through JA’s online business simulation.