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Reading Raises Interest Kits

2026 Reading Raises Interest Kit

Every year, the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation provides free, easy-to-use kits to WBA-member banks at their request. The Kits, used in conjunction with National Teach Children to Save Day (Thursday, April 23, 2026), feature a book, lesson plans, and resources bankers can use to ensure a successful presentation. The Kits are developed with guidance from the WBF Financial Literacy Advisory Board.

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The 2026 Reading Raises Interest Kit features The Berenstain Bears’ Trouble with Money by Stan and Jan Berenstain

This classic Berenstain Bears story is a perfect way to teach children about the importance of being responsible with money! Mama and Papa are worried that Brother and Sister seem to think money grows on trees. To make money of their own, the cubs decide to start their very own businesses, from a lemonade stand to a pet-walking service. 

If applicable
In addition to the ten copies provided in the Kit, how many additional copies? Please note that banks will be invoiced for $6.00 per additional book.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the kit?
  •  Ten (10)* copies of The Berenstain Bears’ Trouble with Money by Stan and Jan Berenstain
  • The 2026 Lesson Plan
  • Several Online Resources (see below)

* Additional copies of the 2026 Reading Raises Interest Kit featured book may be ordered for $6 per additional copy while supplies last.

When should I order? When will my kit arrive?

Orders for the 2026 Kit are due March 24, 2026. Kits will be delivered in early April (in time for Financial Literacy Month).

Do these presentations count towards my bank's efforts in driving financial literacy and capability?

Yes! Each year, WBF’s Reading Raises Interest Kit program assists hundreds of bankers throughout Wisconsin in engaging the youngest members of their communities in financial education. These presentations count toward qualification for Wisconsin Bankers Foundation Excellence in Financial Education Awards.

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2026 Reading Raises Interest Online Resources
Archived Resources

Since 2005, the Wisconsin Bankers Association and (beginning in 2015) the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation have provided bankers across Wisconsin with engaging financial literacy lessons to assist them in connecting with the youngest members of their communities. While physical kits and books from years past are no longer available, the lesson plan archive is a free resource bankers regularly utilize in diversifying their financial education presentations.

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