NOTE to parents, teachers, and educators of every kind:
Use this definition as a simple, kid-friendly teaching tool. Click this link to view the full index of current money terms and definitions, and learn how to use the Sammy Rabbit dictionary to support teaching and learning.
Word and Category
Word: Cost
Related Definition: Price + Spend + Value + Worth
Category: Choice Word
What this category means:
Choice words help children understand how decisions affect their money. They support thinking before spending and making thoughtful money choices.
Definitions
In Simple Words
Cost is how much money you have to give to buy something.
The cost helps you decide if you should buy it or save your money.
A Little More Grown-Up
Cost is the amount of money needed to purchase something. Understanding cost helps people compare options and make smart spending decisions.
Context Clues
You may see the word “cost” in Sammy Rabbit stories and activities when kids are deciding what to buy, comparing items, or thinking about saving money.
Sammy Says Sentences
Sammy Says: “Checking the cost before you buy is one step toward becoming a smart spender!”
Silly Sentence
The cost of my cookie was so high, it must have been baked by a dragon.
Serious Sentence
Knowing the cost helps people decide how to spend their money wisely.
Rhyming Sentences
Silly Rhyming Sentence:
I checked the cost before I flossed, so my money wouldn’t get lost!
Serious Rhyming Sentence:
When I know the cost before I buy, my savings plan can really fly.
Money Habit Sentences and Connection
Money Habit Sentences:
Not thinking about the cost can lead to a bad spending habit.
Thinking about the cost before buying can lead to a good money habit.
Share with kids:
Learning about cost helps kids pause, think, and make smart money choices.
Examples of Cost
How much a toy costs at the store
The cost of a snack
The amount needed to buy a book
Checking the cost before spending allowance
Examples of What Is Not Cost
Buying without checking the price
Guessing how much something costs
Spending without thinking
Related Money Words
Price • Spend • Value • Worth • Choice • Money
Opposite Money Words
Free • No Cost
Questions for Kids
Ask your child or student: “What is something you want, and what does it cost?”
Remember
Thinking about cost helps you make smart choices and build strong money habits.
Get the Entire Dictionary in One PDF
Want a FREE printable PDF of the complete Sammy Rabbit Kid-Friendly Money Dictionary? Contact us to learn how to get a copy for your home, classroom, or community.
Keep Kids and Families Learning
Kids, families, and schools of every kind can enroll in Sammy Rabbit’s Money School with a FREE, PREMIUM or Group Discount Money School Memberships, giving learners access to engaging, age-appropriate financial education resources.
Parents, teachers, and community leaders are invited to explore the resources and teaching tips available on SammyRabbit.com, starting with award-winning financial educator Sam X Renick’s article series, Money Lessons Parents Should Teach Kids!
Schools, community organizations, employers, and partners can learn more about Sammy's Dream Big Financial Education curriculum, a flexible, standards-aligned approach designed to help children build strong money habits, confidence, and lifelong skills.
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