Unique workshop highlights ways to become money smart; introduces children to saving, investing and money management
Children at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) took a creative leap into financial literacy during an engaging workshop titled Between Investing and Saving. The session made the fundamentals of money management both fun and practical for young participants.
Led by Omani financial literacy coach and university lecturer Dr Wafa AlShamsi, the workshop equipped children with essential skills to distinguish between saving and investing while inspiring smarter financial decision-making. Dr AlShamsi shared: “Understanding how to save and invest from a young age builds a foundation for better financial choices throughout life.”
Interactive activities such as purchasing Salik with paper money introduced concepts like planning, risk management, and long-term goal setting. Children explored how informed decisions today can influence future financial success.
Participants enthusiastically shared their learnings. Twelve-year-old Jordanian attendee Maryam Mamoon said, “I now understand saving is for something soon, like a toy, but investing helps us grow money for bigger dreams.” Lana Dakwar, an older student, added, “The activities were fun and taught me that taking calculated risks can bring me closer to my goals.”
Parents praised the workshop’s hands-on approach. Fatima Al-Nuaimi, who attended with her children, commented: “This session made complex financial concepts simple and engaging, giving kids a valuable life skill early on.”
SIBF continues to inspire by pairing a love for reading with practical workshops that nurture lifelong skills, helping young learners become confident and informed individuals.