Grade Level: 3rd Grade

  • Ice Cream Stand — Money Management

    • Check the menu prices before getting in line — know how much your treat will cost
    • Count your money to make sure you have enough before ordering
    • Hand the correct amount to the staff member, or pay with a larger bill and count your change
    • Toppings may cost extra — ask about prices before adding them to your order
    • If you don’t have enough money, decide whether to earn more at a nearby job station or choose a less expensive option
  • Ice Cream Stand — Following Directions

    • Directions given by ice cream stand staff regarding:
      1. What is available for purchase
      2. What toppings they can choose from
  • Ice Cream Stand — Problem Solving

    • What to do if there is a line

      You need to decide if you have the time to wait in line. If you do, wait patiently until it is your turn
    • What to do if you don’t have enough money to make a purchase:

      Decide if you would like to do a job to earn the money for your treat
  • Ice Cream Stand — Functional Communication

    • Greetings

      Saying hello and goodbye
    • Visual Communication:
      1. Follow visual prompts for choosing ice cream or freeze pop
      2. Follow visual prompts for choosing toppings
    • Ask for assistance or directions from the staff when needed
    • Making eye contact while communicating
  • Ice Cream Stand — Time Management

    • The ice cream stand is often busy — check the line length before committing to wait
    • Estimate your wait: count the number of people ahead of you
    • Plan your visit: many students save the ice cream stand for the end of their visit as a reward
    • Leave enough time to eat your treat before your school departs — you’ll need a few minutes after getting your ice cream
    • If the line is long and you’re running out of time, consider coming back later or visiting another store first
  • Ice Cream Stand — Budgeting

    • Ice cream is often the last purchase of the day — make sure you’ve saved enough in your budget for it
    • Check prices for different options (ice cream vs. freeze pop) and choose one that fits your remaining budget
    • Remember that toppings may add to the cost — factor them into your spending plan
    • Activity: At the end of your visit, count what’s left in your wallet. Can you afford a treat? This is real-world budgeting in action
    • Practice delayed gratification: if you saved money throughout your visit specifically for ice cream, you’ve successfully followed your budget
  • Ice Cream Stand — Safety and Security

    • Keep money in your wallet until you’re at the counter and ready to order
    • Carry your ice cream carefully — walk slowly to avoid spilling or dropping it
    • If you have food allergies, ask the staff about ingredients before ordering
    • Dispose of napkins, cups, and spoons in the trash when you’re finished — don’t leave a mess
    • If you spill your ice cream, tell a staff member so they can help clean it up
    • Wash your hands or use a napkin after eating before touching your wallet or other items
  • Ice Cream Stand — Employment

    • Fill out job application
    • Interview for a job
    • Job duties
      1. Restock cups and spoons
      2. Notifying staff when supplies are low
      3. Clean Ice Cream Cart
      4. Pick up anything that has fallen on the floor
      5. Sweep around cart
  • Ice Cream Stand — Independent Living Skills

    • Decision-Making:

      If there are many options, practice choosing what you want based on your preferences
    • Etiquette:

      Dispose of any trash properly after you’ve finished enjoying your ice cream
    • Handling Change:

      If you pay with a larger bill, receive and count the correct change given by the attendant
    • Waiting Patience:
      1. Wait patiently in line if there are other customers ahead of you
      2. Understand that it might take a little time for your order to be prepared