Word and Category
Word: Want
Category: Choice Word
What this category means:
Choice words help children think about decisions. They encourage kids to pause, compare options, and decide what they want most instead of trying to have everything at once.
Definitions
In Simple Words
A want is something you would like to have, but do not need to live or stay safe.
Wants are things that can be fun or nice, but you can wait for them.
A Little More Grown-Up
A want is something a person desires, even though it is not necessary for basic needs like food, shelter, or safety. Wants often involve making choices about how to use money.
Context Clues
You can find the word “want” in many Sammy Rabbit money songs and stories including the song titled: Wants and Needs.
Sammy Says
Sammy Says:
“Before you buy, ask yourself—do I need it, or do I just want it? Waiting can be a smart money move!”
Money Habit Connection
Learning to tell the difference between wants and needs helps kids slow down, think ahead, and make smarter spending choices that support their goals.
Silly Sentence
I wanted a rocket ship so badly that I checked my piggy bank for space fuel!
Serious Sentence
When you understand what you want, you can decide if it is worth spending your money now or saving for later.
Rhyming Sentences
Silly Rhyming Sentence:
I want that toy with flashing light, but saving first just might be right!
Serious Rhyming Sentence:
When I know what I want and think it through, my money choices feel smarter too.
Examples of Wants
Toys, games, or treats
New clothes when you already have some
Eating out instead of eating at home
Decorations or fun extras
Examples of What Is Not a Want
Food you need to eat
Clothes you need to stay warm
A safe place to live
Basic school supplies
Related Money Words
Need • Choice • Spend • Save • Goal • Budget
Opposite Money Words
Need
Questions Parents and Teachers Can Ask Kids
Ask your child or student:
“Is this something you need right now, or something you want and could wait for?”
Remember
Wants are okay—but thinking before you spend helps your money last longer and work better for you.
Get the Entire Dictionary in One PDF
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Related Standards Aligned Lesson Plans
Keep Kids and Families Learning
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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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