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

What is a want?

Learn the definition of a want and see how wants are different from needs — even when they feel urgent.

In this lesson

What is a want? 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: You have 1000 in local currency. Your needs this week cost 700 in local currency. A book you want costs 400 in local currency.

How it works

A video game is enjoyable but not essential to live or learn. It is a want.

Try a real-life example

Real-life money moment: Wants are bad and you should never buy them.

Activity preview

Try the challenge

Use what you learned to complete this short challenge.

Quiz preview

Which is a want?

A second video game
School uniform
Daily food
Tap water at home

You have 1000 in local currency. Your needs this week cost 700 in local currency. A book you want costs 400 in local currency. What should you do?

Never buy books
Wait and save for the book next week when you have more
Buy the book and skip a need
Buy the book — 300 in local currency left is enough