Concept:
Understanding the difference between needs and wants is key to making smart money choices.
Needs are things you must have to live — like food, water, clothes, and shelter.
Wants are extras — things you enjoy but can live without, like a new video game or designer shoes.
When money is limited, prioritizing needs helps you stay financially healthy.
Example Illustration:
You have $15.
You need to buy lunch ($7), and you also want a new phone case ($10).
If you spend it all on the case, you’ll go hungry.
Choosing lunch first is focusing on a need — the smarter financial decision.
Need, Want, Smart
Key Sign Language Terms (linked to examples):
• Need – ASL video link: “Need”
• Want – ASL video link: “Want”
• Money – ASL video link: “Money”
• Smart – ASL video link: “Smart”
• Choice – ASL video link: “Choose”
One-Sentence Summary:
Knowing the difference between needs and wants helps you make better financial choices every day.