Money Lessons to Learn from Anime Characters

My current passion revolves around indulging in anime. From the epic world of One Piece to the supernatural mysteries of Jujutsu Kaisen, the characters within these series offer a captivating glimpse into various lifestyles and personalities they portray in their daily lives.

Surprisingly, one can learn a lot about anime characters based on their approach to finances, encompassing everything from their leisurely spending habits to their creditworthiness and the purposes for which they secure loans.

ART OF FINANCIAL CONTROL (My Hero Academia) 

In the realm of My Hero Academia, Ochaco Uraraka, also known as Uravity, emerges as a character whose financial acumen is well beyond her years. Hailing from a family where every yen is cherished, Ochaco never had the luxury of extravagance. Her parents frequently struggled to find stable employment, a situation that made her value every cent.

Ochaco’s prudent approach to money management is commendable. She refrains from reckless spending and has set a noble goal of using her future earnings as a pro hero to support her parents, in gratitude for their sacrifices. Her explanation of this plan leaves her friends Izuku and Tenya deeply impressed.

FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT IN THE MIDSET OF WAR (Berserk) 

Within the dark and gritty world of Berserk, the cunning knight commander, Griffith, assumes the monumental responsibility of overseeing the intricate financial aspects of commanding a mercenary army. Sustaining such a formidable force demands substantial resources, as Casca once elucidated to Guts.

Although the anime doesn’t delve into this aspect in detail, it is evident that Griffith dedicated countless hours to meticulously managing the Band of the Hawk’s finances, steering clear of imprudent choices that could have led to its bankruptcy. His financial prowess is an essential facet of his leadership.

VIRTUE OF PATIENT SAVING (Laid-Back Camp) 

Laid-Back Camp presents a delightful slice-of-life anime featuring high school girls with a shared love for camping. However, funding their camping adventures is entirely their responsibility, prompting characters like Nadeshiko and her friends to become financially savvy.

Nadeshiko, in particular, sets an example of patience and diligence by securing a part-time job to meticulously save for high-quality camping gear, despite its substantial cost. Her prudent financial strategy quickly pays off, and she takes pride in her ability to save for potential upgrades, such as a larger tent or a better sleeping bag.

EARNING THE HARD WAY (Fruits Basket)

Tohru Honda, the central figure in Fruits Basket, mirrors the responsible financial approach seen in characters like Ochaco and Misaki. Having limited financial resources, she appreciates the value of her earnings and abstains from frivolous expenditures, in honor of her late mother’s teachings.

Tohru dedicates herself to part-time work after school, striving to support herself independently. This determination and financial responsibility, shaped by the loss of her parents, exemplify her wisdom beyond her years.

PERPETUAL GROWTH IN FINANCES (Mob Psycho 100)

Anime characters, like real-life individuals, continuously evolve and improve. This progression might encompass mastering new techniques, gaining insights into opponents, or addressing personal weaknesses.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

In Mob Psycho 100, the protagonist, Mob, initially appears as an unassuming and weak individual. However, beneath his unremarkable exterior lies unparalleled psychic abilities. Mob’s indifference to his powers and his awareness that they don’t guarantee a fulfilling life exemplify his maturity. He understands that genuine personal growth extends beyond supernatural talents and that true fulfillment transcends external validation.

Sources: 1 & 2

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Extremely Entertaining Games To Educate Your Kids About Money

Before diving into the rising world of freelance, I previously worked as an early childhood teacher for children aged 5 to 12. I can encapsulate my teaching experience with a single word – fulfilling. One of the most profound lessons that I absorbed was that children learn best when they are having fun. You may let them think they are playing a game with an underlying agenda. For instance, you may turn counting into entertaining games for your family.

Games like these act as great teaching tools for parents and guardians alike. It ignites a kids’ curiosity and encourages them to ask questions about money.

1. ASSORTED CURRENCY MAGNETS

Many Singaporeans have a hobby of collecting magnets from the countries that they previously visited. Mimic this concept by plastering currency magnets into your fridge. Begin by purchasing self-adhesive magnets online (for about S$28.39) or on Daiso (for as low as S$2). Attach the adhesive to the back of the 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents. Make another set by attaching the adhesive on the coins’ front side of coins with the same denominations. You can complete different activities with these currency magnets.

On the first challenge, you may ask your child to match the coins’ backs with their fronts. The second challenge may entail your child to “pay” for every favor or toy that he or she asks.

2. AMAZING UNO CARDS

Teach your kid about the basics of counting and recognizing numbers by buying the UNO cards. UNO is not your average matching game! It is a card game that entails color, number, and symbol coding. The premise is too straightforward that your child will be able to absorb it right away. Alternatively, you may modify the instructions to suit your child’s level of thinking.

Image Credits: besttoys4toddlers.com

Image Credits: besttoys4toddlers.com

For instance, you may ask your 3-year-old child to match the cards that have the same number and color. Keep track of the winner by employing a point system.

3. MAKE YOUR OWN CASH

Art is one of the children’s main modes of communication. So, communicate to your children in a language that they understand by letting them design their own versions of the dollar notes. Whose faces shall they feature? What buildings or infrastructures shall they put at the back?

Provide different art materials and get them to think creatively!

4. SHOP ‘TILL YOU DROP

Gather at least 8 toys and place a price tag on each one. Divide your Singapore notes and coins to your children and let them decide which toys they want to “buy”. In this round, you are the cashier or the owner of the shop. Mix and match the prices of the items and the roles of the players (e.g., your children are the co-owners while you shop).

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

This fun activity will help your kids to figure out the best way to divide and spend their cash.

Sources: 1 & 2

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