By Erin Thompson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist, Toledo, OH
It typically takes people a lifetime of planning to reach their retirement goals. The earlier young workers know about saving for their future, the better chance they’ll have at achieving a comfortable retirement. This is why Social Security has created a resource specifically for teachers and students. Our Information for Educators page contains a toolkit with information and resources to educate and engage students on Social Security programs and services.
Within the toolkit, you’ll find: Two lesson plans with objectives
Info-graphics and handouts for each lesson plan
Links to Social Security web pages
Talking points
Quiz questions and answers
It’s important for students to understand why Social Security was created and why it is essential to their lives today and in the future. This knowledge and understanding will provide students a strong base on which to build their financial future. You can access the webpage and toolkit at www.socialsecurity.gov/thirdparty/educators.html. Young workers can also see how Social Security directly relates to them at www.socialsecurity.gov/people/students.
Encouraging young people to save now for long-term goals that are decades away can be somewhat difficult. Let them know they have a better chance of realizing their dreams if they start planning and taking action early. And also let them know that they can share this information with friends, both in person and on social media.