Financial Literacy & Tech: Top Apps

The use of technology by financial education professionals continues to skyrocket.  Financial literacy programs, initiatives, games, platforms and other solutions employing technology are being rolled out at lightning-pace speed in both developed and developing countries and this trend is likely to pick up even more steam in the months ahead.

Technology solutions in the area of financial literacy drive greater awareness of the importance of financial affairs – and also result in more instant gratification and feelings of accomplishment among both younger and older cohorts.

The range of apps that are being rolled out to take youth and adult financial literacy to new heights is vast.  Based on feedback from our readers, the following is a list of some of the top financial literacy apps:

<> Tykoon – Tykoon is a fun app for kids that teaches them skills in money management by tracking their allowance, excess money earned and “wish lists.”  The app also enables the kids to buy parent-approved merchandise from Amazon.com, while also allowing them to donate directly to charities through Network For Good.  More information is found here:  www.tykoon.com

<> Unleash the Loot – Unleash the Loot, available for the iPhone and iPad, is an interesting game for kids that teaches them about financial responsibility, including saving, earning and spending.  The game also sends emails to family members of the children to keep them apprised of the financial lessons being learned by the kids.  More information can be found here:  http://greenstreetcommons.com/gallery/about-our-app/

<> Savings Spree – Savings Spree, a winner of a Parents’ Choice Gold Award, is an App designed for kids ages 7 and up, who learn how the daily lifestyle choices they make can result in either savings or expenses.  The game also teaches children how to invest money and make donations to others.  More information can be found here: http://www.msgen.com/assembled/savings_spree.html

<> P2K Money – P2K Money is an allowance tracker that enables kids to create “wish lists” of items they want to buy using money they have saved.  Click here for more information: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/p2k-money/id405631656?mt=8

<> TheMint.org – TheMint.org is a web-based solution that provides education and tools for kids, tweens, parents and teachers to enhance their financial literacy.  More information can be found here: http://themint.org/

<> Mindblown Life – this new mobile phone app enables users to create avatars that need to navigate through important financial issues, such as managing student loans, buying a home, and planning for disasters.  More information is located here: http://www.mindblownlabs.com/