Difference Between Needs and Wants: Clear Examples for Kids

📚 Quick Study Guide

• 🏠 Needs are things you must have to survive and be healthy. Think of them as the non-negotiables!
• 🍎 Examples of needs include food, water, shelter (a place to live), and clothing.
• 🧸 Wants are things you would like to have, but you don't *need* them to survive.
• 🎮 Examples of wants include toys, video games, candy, and going to the movies.
• 💰 It's important to understand the difference so you can make good choices about how you spend your money!

📝 Practice Quiz

1. Which of these is a NEED?
1. A. A brand-new video game
2. B. A warm coat in the winter
3. C. A giant lollipop
4. D. A ticket to a concert


2. Which of these is a WANT?
1. A. A glass of water when you're thirsty
2. B. A safe place to sleep
3. C. A colorful kite to fly at the park
4. D. Nutritious food for dinner


3. Having ________ helps you survive, while having ________ makes life more fun.
1. A. Wants, needs
2. B. Needs, wants
3. C. Fun, survival
4. D. Money, toys


4. If you only have enough money for one thing, should you buy a need or a want?
1. A. Always a want!
2. B. Always a need!
3. C. Whichever is on sale
4. D. It doesn't matter


5. Which is NOT a need?
1. A. Food
2. B. Shelter
3. C. Air to breathe
4. D. A new bicycle


6. Sarah is thirsty after playing outside. Is water a need or a want in this situation?
1. A. A want
2. B. A need
3. C. Neither
4. D. Both


7. Tom wants a new toy, but he also needs new shoes because his old ones are too small. What should Tom do?
1. A. Buy the toy - shoes aren't important!
2. B. Ask his parents to buy him both
3. C. Buy the shoes first, and save up for the toy later
4. D. Borrow shoes from a friend