Financial Literacy Classes for Neurodivergent Teens and Young Adults
Our Financial Fitness classes provide an evidence-based financial literacy curriculum developed by educators and researchers at Michigan State University to support teens and young adults with autism, ADHD, and cognitive disabilities in achieving real financial independence.
Classes meet once a week for 12 weeks and cover the practical money management skills that matter most in everyday life – from budgeting and saving to using credit responsibly and knowing where to turn for trusted financial advice.
What Students Learn in Our Financial Fitness Classes
Over the 12 weeks, students build confidence and competence across the full range of personal finance topics:
Managing monthly expenses and debts
Planning and saving for the future
Using credit cards and loans responsibly
Selecting and managing bank accounts and financial products
Accessing trusted resources for financial guidance
Tracking Financial Literacy Progress
At the start of the program, each student completes a brief pre-assessment to establish a baseline of their current financial knowledge and confidence. At the end of the 12 weeks, they take the same assessment again – giving students and families a clear picture of the progress they’ve made.
How Families Support Financial Independence
Families are an important part of the Financial Fitness experience. Throughout the program, families receive weekly worksheets that reinforce what students are covering in class. Family members can help most by encouraging their student to discuss what they’re learning and finding real opportunities to practice together — reviewing a grocery receipt, opening a savings account, or working through a monthly budget.
Our Financial Fitness classes are available both online nationwide and in-person in Richmond, VA, making them accessible to families everywhere. Whether your student is just starting to learn about money management or looking to build on existing skills, our evidence-based curriculum meets them where they are and helps them move toward financial independence.