Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will understand the basic concepts of money, how to use it in a shopping scenario, and the importance of making healthy food choices. The student will also learn to recognize different types of play food and their nutritional value while engaging in a fun and interactive play store activity.

Materials and Prep

• Play money (bills and coins)
• Play food items (fruits, vegetables, snacks, etc.)
• Shopping cart (or a basket)
• Table or designated area for the play store
• Labels for prices (you can write them on paper)

Before the lesson, set up a small area as a play store. Arrange the play food items on a table and label them with prices using the paper labels. Make sure the student understands the concept of buying and selling with play money.

Activities

• Setting Up the Store

  Have the student help arrange the play food on the table, placing price labels on each item. This will help them learn about pricing and organization while making the play store look inviting.

• Shopping Time!

  Give the student a set amount of play money and let them “shop” for their favorite play food items. Encourage them to count their money and decide how many items they can buy without going over their budget.

• Healthy Choices Discussion

  After shopping, sit down with the student and discuss the items they chose. Ask questions about which foods are healthy and why. This will help reinforce the importance of nutrition while making it fun.

• Role Play: Cashier and Customer

  Switch roles with the student, allowing them to be the cashier. This will give them practice in handling money and making change while reinforcing their understanding of transactions.

Talking Points

• "What do you think money is for?"
• "Can you tell me how much this apple costs?"
• "Why is it important to eat healthy foods?"
• "How many items can you buy with your money?"
• "What do you want to be when you grow up? How can money help you with that?"