Discovering the Euro and Other Currencies in the EU
The Let’s Play Shop activity helps pupils in 1st and 2nd Class understand how money works across the European Union. Through role-play and hands-on interaction, children discover that while many EU countries use the euro, some use different currencies, and that money sometimes needs to be exchanged.
What’s the difference between Activities and Instructions?
Activities are the interactive games or exercises your pupils will complete in class. Instructions are the teacher materials that help you prepare: background notes, printable sheets, or instructions.
Learning objectives
This activity helps children to:
- Use play money (euro and krone) to buy and sell items
- Understand that some EU countries use the same currency
- Learn that not all EU countries use the euro
- Recognise the need to change money when travelling to a country with a different currency
- Understand that there is a cost to currency exchange
- Make simple decisions about spending money
- Compare prices and decide what to buy
- Practise polite questions and answers during role-play
- Gain confidence taking part in a simulated real-life situation
Introducing currencies in the European Unionean Union flag
The activity begins by explaining that different countries in the European Union use different currencies.
Children learn that:
- The euro is used in many EU countries
- Countries like Denmark use a different currency
- Having a shared currency can make things easier when travelling and shopping
This introduction prepares pupils for the role-play activity.
Setting up the shop game
The teacher creates two toy shops in the classroom:
- One shop in the Eurozone (Paris)
- One shop outside the Eurozone (Copenhagen)
A small bank or bureau de change is also set up, allowing children to exchange euros for kroner when needed.
This physical setup helps children clearly see the difference between using the euro and using another currency.
Playing the shop game
Each child receives a small purse of euros and chooses which shop to visit.
- In the Paris shop, children can pay directly with euros
- In the Copenhagen shop, children must first exchange their euros for kroner at the bank
Children count their money, choose items and complete their purchase before returning to their seat. The activity is repeated with different pupils.
Understanding money exchange and choice
During the game, children learn that:
- Changing money comes with a cost
- You may receive less money after exchange
- Sharing a currency can make buying and selling easier
These ideas are introduced in a simple, age-appropriate way through play and repetition.
Why this activity works
- Designed specifically for 1st and 2nd Class
- Uses role-play to explain abstract economic ideas
- Builds numeracy, communication and decision-making skills
- Encourages confidence through real-life scenarios
- Makes EU concepts practical and relatable
