Today was the last day for the fifth graders to sell their wares in the mini economy project. Walker sold things once or twice in the beginning but over the course of the year, he proved to be more of a consumer. (Too bad I was not able to participate. Making things is my cup of tea.) When he first opened up shop, he made boondoggles and sold finished items. Later he sold melted Perler beads. From these two ventures, he learned a valuable lesson: finished items take time to make. With all of the homework and activities, there was not much time left over.
Since Walker had grown wiser, he assembled kits so each person could make his or her own boondoggle. Walker and I cut lengths of cording in lots of colors. He printed labels up that linked to three different type of boondoggle and he attached those to clean Crystal Light containers. The buyer could customize the color of the boondoggle cords and would receive a clip and the instructions in the case.
Boys and girls alike were interested and this was a successful venture.
Just about anything could be sold and did sell. The secret was finding the niche. Kids sold customized jars, sewn pillows, wood plaques, origami fortune cookies, jewelry and book marks. They were not allowed to sell baked goods but one successful work-around was single serving cakes to be prepared at home in a mug.
All of the money earned will be used to purchase items at the culminating event of mini economy—the auction.
Wow that was a lot of work! I bet it generated much excitement!
I bet you were happy you saved those crystal light containers :).
Love hearing how Walker finessed the assignment over time. And what a cool project!
A great lesson learned by all.
What a cool thing for the school to do! Why no baked goods?