LifeChanger programme

The LifeChanger program is an initiative by United Way Hungary, focusing on financial awareness development. The program aims to teach 9- to 11-year-old primary school children the basics of financial decision-making in a playful way, emphasising concepts such as income, expenses, savings, and charity. Participants learn to responsibly manage household budgets by modeling real-life situations, enhancing their financial literacy. Established in 2016 with the support of the MetLife Foundation, the program has since been introduced in several schools.

Key Activities and Student Experience

The LifeChanger programe's main activities focus on developing financial awareness and providing practical learning experiences for children. Students model real-life situations to learn the basics of financial decision-making, especially income, expenses, savings, and charity. A key element of the program is the four-compartment piggy bank, which helps children understand financial planning. Schools receive a free teacher package to support the educational process. Educators participate in a one-day training, earning 8 credit points. The program’s effectiveness is evaluated using expert measurement tools to track students’ progress.

Program Features and Principles

The LifeChanger program's main principles focus on developing financial awareness, supporting practical learning, and encouraging responsible decision-making. Students model real-life situations to learn the basics of financial planning, with special attention to income, expenses, savings, and charity. The program aims to establish conscious financial behavior at a young age, contributing to long-term financial stability.

Methodology and Structure

The LifeChanger program's pedagogical methods are based on experiential learning and research-based education. Students model real-life situations to learn the basics of financial decision-making, helping them develop practical skills. A key element of the program is the motivational point collection system, called OkoShop, which encourages students to apply financial awareness in practice. During lessons, educators lead interactive sessions that promote independent thinking and responsible decision-making among students.

Expected Outcomes and Value

The main outcomes of the LifeChanger program include developing financial awareness, helping children make responsible financial decisions. Participating students learn the principles of income, expenses, savings, and charity, which contribute to their future financial stability.