Circle time discussion
Aim:
To introduce the concepts of debt and aid.
You will need:
A group of people.
Duration:
15 minutes
Introduce a discussion about debt and aid with younger children. These are some suggested questions to ask to get everyone talking:
- Have any of you ever borrowed money from someone? Did you pay it back?
- Is it important to pay back money that you have borrowed?
- What sort of things do adults borrow money to buy?
Explain that countries can also borrow money to pay for things. Sometimes it is difficult for poor countries to repay the money they owe. Because some countries have been trying to pay money back for a long time, and have lots of other important things they could use their money for (like schools and hospitals) many people think their debts should be wiped out.
Go on to talk about aid:
- Has anyone ever made a donation to charity or taken part in a fundraising event?
- Has anyone ever shared something with a friend because they had more than their friend?
- Is it good to help people who are poor or in need?
Explain that rich countries give money to poorer countries to help them improve people's lives. The problem is that we are not yet giving enough money to make the improvements that are needed.