Separating ‘iWants’ from ‘iNeeds:’ MassMutual Releases New App to Teach Kids About Making Good Financial Decisions

Children’s habits are formed at an early age, and a 2009 study by Forbes Consulting Group for Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) revealed that two-thirds of parents think financial education should start then, too. That’s one of the reasons why MassMutual is now offering a free downloadable interactive game, Save! The Game, to help kids learn the value of separating wants from needs when it comes to spending.

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“Interactive games can be a powerful educational platform for engaging kids on serious topics, and Save! The Game harnesses that potential to bring the concept of wants versus needs to life,” said Nick Fyntrilakis, assistant vice president, corporate responsibility, MassMutual. “MassMutual is proud to offer this app as part of our longtime commitment to education, and we encourage parents to share it with their children to help teach them about the value of making good decisions about money.”

Save! The Game leads players through a 3-D fantasy world where they collect virtual money while trying to avoid the iWannas – impulse items like candy, soda and toys. It currently works on iPhone™ and iPod touch® products and is available on the App Store(SM).

Save! The Game is a cornerstone of MassMutual’s Right on the Money program, a suite of fun, online activities that teach kids the importance of saving, earning, budgeting and charitable giving. Right on the Money also includes materials to help teachers cover these topics in class.

“Our research and experience show that parents are actively looking for new ways to educate their children about the importance of properly managing their finances,” said Fyntrilakis. “The Right on the Money program offers a way for kids of all ages to learn financial basics that will benefit them throughout their lifetime.”

For additional tools and tips about educating kids about money management, visit www.massmutual.com/familyfinances.