Youth Financial Literacy: A Review of Key Considerations and Promising Delivery Methods

The majority of youth consistently receive failing scores on financial literacy tests—even those who have taken courses on personal finance or money management. Some specific programs, however, have demonstrated beneficial effects. Thus, it is imperative to identify the key considerations and promising delivery methods which may inform positive changes in financial literacy and/or behavior among youth. In the present study, we conducted a comprehensive review of the current literature on youth financial literacy education, with the goal of identifying characteristics of financial education programs which may influence positive changes. The findings from the literature on these key considerations and promising delivery methods are discussed in detail, with attention given to developmental considerations as appropriate.