Fourth and fifth graders are learning what it takes to launch a business in Junior Entrepreneurs. This Punahou Summer Programs course guides students through every stage of the entrepreneurial process – from developing an idea and conducting market research to creating, pricing and selling a product.
Working individually or in teams of two, students design and produce original items while strengthening skills in budgeting, critical thinking, communication, collaboration and problem-solving. Throughout the course, they make decisions similar to those faced by real business owners as they refine their products and prepare for a marketplace.
During Market Day, the classroom is transformed into a student-run marketplace featuring handmade Pokémon cards, fuse bead art, friendship bracelets, decorated keychains, animal-themed bookmarks, slime, sensory fidget blocks, stickers, squishies and more. Classmates receive homemade currency to purchase one another’s creations, giving students the opportunity to practice salesmanship, customer service and money management while experiencing the rewards and challenges of running a small business.
