Word and Category
Word: Need
Category: Choice Word
What this category means:
Choice words help children think about decisions. They guide kids to understand what is important right now and help them choose what they must have before spending money on extras.
Definitions
In Simple Words
A need is something you must have to live, learn, or stay safe.
Needs are things you cannot go without.
A Little More Grown-Up
A need is something essential for basic living, such as food, clothing, shelter, health, or education. Needs usually come before wants when making money choices.
Context Clues
You can find the word “need” in many Sammy Rabbit money songs and stories including the song titled: Wants and Needs.
Sammy Says
Sammy Says:
“Take care of your needs first—when you do, your money choices get a whole lot easier!”
Money Habit Connection
Learning to identify needs helps kids set priorities, avoid impulse spending, and make sure their money is used for what matters most.
Silly Sentence
I needed my shoes so badly that I almost tried to wear two left feet!
Serious Sentence
When you spend money on needs first, you make sure the important things are taken care of.
Rhyming Sentences
Silly Rhyming Sentence:
I need my coat when weather’s cold, or I’ll be shivering like I’m old!
Serious Rhyming Sentence:
When I meet my needs before I play, my money works the smartest way.
Examples of Needs
Food and clean water
Clothes to stay warm and safe
A place to live
School supplies needed for learning
Examples of What Is Not a Need
Extra toys or games
Candy or treats
Brand-new items when you already have some
Entertainment extras
Related Money Words
Want • Choice • Spend • Save • Budget • Plan
Opposite Money Words
Want
Questions Parents and Teachers Can Ask Kids
Ask your child or student:
“What are the most important things you need to take care of before spending money on fun extras?”
Remember
Needs come first. When you take care of what you need, you can enjoy your wants with confidence.
Get the Entire Dictionary in One PDF
If you’d like a FREE, printable PDF with the entire Sammy Rabbit Kid-Friendly Money Dictionary, including all of the words and definitions, contact us to learn how you can get a copy for your home, classroom, or community.
Related Standards Aligned Lesson Plans
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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