Alexander Used to Be Rich
by Jane Crawford

"Why Can't I Have Everything? works for home or classroom learning. Well researched, it includes mathematics goals and Common Core standards as well as extensive literature resources and ideas for parents. The resource makes the journey from identifying coins to learning about saving, spending, bartering, and budgeting a delightful experience."

Valerie J. Samson, M.Ed: Curriculum & Instruction (C&I)
Presidential Awardee for Excellence in Mathematics
and Science Teaching (PAEMST)

"Kids will love the fun literature and engaging activities in Why Can’t I Have Everything? Teachers will welcome the easy-to-use format and in-depth curriculum, and parents will appreciate the valuable lessons their children learn from this book."

Trudy Harris, Elementary School Teacher
Idaho Falls, Idaho
Author of Jenny Found a Penny and 100 Days of School

"Why Can’t I Have Everything? is so timely. Children are becoming more and more aware of the importance of money in their world. As a mother of a two preschoolers and as a math specialist, I highly recommend this thoughtful collection of lessons, children’s literature suggestions, and assessments. The teaching tips and key questions, along with the friendly format, make this the perfect resource for those trying to answer the question, “Why Can’t I Have Everything?” The lessons will engage future consumers at home and at school. Jane’s knowledge of young mathematicians has resulted in another book that is right on the money."

Beth Terry, Math Specialist
Alexandria City Public Schools, Virginia
2004 PAEMST Awardee—Colorado

"Jane Crawford has created a practical and timely resource that prepares young children to be fi nancially literate and responsible consumers. Why I Can’t Have Everything? is full of engaging, standards-based lessons that integrate math, social studies, and language arts. Teachers and parents will love this book."

Rusty Bresser, Lecturer and Supervisor of Teacher Education
University of California, San Diego
Coauthor of Supporting English Language Learners in Math Class

"Why Can’t I Have Everything? is a rich resource for teachers and parents alike. Thoughtful selections of outstanding children’s literature enhance increasingly complex mathematical lessons. Young children begin with coin recognition and counting. Lessons then evolve to consider large numbers and place value patterns. Each chapter is loaded with meaningful real-life connections that coax children beyond their immediate egocentric perspectives to consider how money affects others in their communities and their world. Key questions and teacher notes clarify ways that adults can help children build vocabulary and deepen understanding. This resource provides a wonderful context for helping young mathematical thinkers develop number sense in meaningful ways."

Vicki Bachman, Math Consultant
Grant Wood Area Education Agency, Cedar Rapids, Iowa