Meaningful math and the economics of empowerment.

Last week I went with some students to a Goodwill thrift store, an optional side trip the student organizers of our ice skating field trip made available for those interested. It’s really not often that young people are able to shop without their parents present and it makes for a very interesting bit of field experience. 

Shopping without a parent, students have a very finite amount of purchase power. A few has $20 in cash but some of those planned to spend $10 that same day renting an ice skating assistive device called a “seal” and so had to keep this immediate upcoming expense in their minds and reflected in the reality of their spending. 

There was a lot of discussion about prioritization: do they really want that item, is that what they want to use their money on, is that a good deal, etc. There was a bit of surprise for some when their final purchase total was more than they expected due to sales tax - a hands on lesson in economics that no book could have provided with greater clarity. The ones who first made purchases quickly passed on this knowledge to their friends to help minimize the shock at check out.

Some students bought things for themselves while others bought gifts for family members. Two students purposefully bought matching items with immense delight. They didn’t have to “clear” their purchase with me. They had to negotiate with themselves alone. They also didn’t ask me for any funds - I’m simply not their parent. They took care of payment at the cashier independently, some having to navigate that experience in a language they don’t yet speak but all figuring out the essentials just fine. 

There’s a pride I see over and over in these situations - an independence and power that goes far beyond the plushie or pullover purchased. These moments are part of that magical recipe of trust, responsibility, community, and autonomy that consistently result in a young person equipped with confidence and competence. And these things are priceless. ❤️