Back to Needs vs Wants Intro
7-10money-basics

What is a need?

Learn the definition of a need and practise identifying true needs in daily life.

In this lesson

What is a need? is part of Needs vs Wants Intro. This preview shows how money-basics connects to everyday family decisions such as earning, saving, spending choices, goals, approvals, or parent-guided money conversations inside Progress Penguin.

Think about this money choice

Imagine this situation: Your family has 5000 in local currency left this week.

How it works

A need is something essential to live safely — food, water, shelter, healthcare. A toy is a want.

Try a real-life example

Real-life money moment: You have 8000 in local currency. Rent: 5000 in local currency. Food: 2000 in local currency. Transport: 500 in local currency. New trainers: 3000 in local currency.

Activity preview

Try the challenge

Use what you learned to complete this short challenge.

Quiz preview

Which is a need?

Designer trainers
Sparkly stickers
Latest video game
Food

Your family has 5000 in local currency left this week. Which do you spend on first?

Groceries and school transport
New video game
Cinema tickets
Decorative stickers