Fourth Jacito Book Introduces Children to Entrepreneurship
Dr Carol Babb has launched the fourth book in her Jacito financial literacy series, using Jacito’s plans for a dog-care business to teach children about entrepreneurship, business planning and money management.
Jacito Becomes an Entrepreneur was launched this weekend, continuing a series designed to make financial literacy accessible to young readers through illustrated stories and practical lessons.
The book follows Jacito as he explores the idea of starting a dog-care business. His grandmother challenges him to research the idea and work out what he needs to turn it into a reality.
“She forces him to research on Google to uncover the facts for himself, mapping out the vision, the mission, the necessary supplies, and the specialised equipment needed to make this business a reality,” Babb said.
Babb said she wants young people to develop the skills to create their own opportunities rather than depend solely on finding employment.
“As an educator, I want to see students create their own businesses,” she said.
The story also introduces children to the financial considerations involved in starting a business. Jacito is too young to qualify for a loan, so his older brother takes on that role as they work towards their business idea. Through the process, the characters learn about loan requirements and repayments.
Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) Executive Director Ishmael Quiroz welcomed the book’s focus on entrepreneurship, noting that financial literacy is an important foundation for starting and managing a business.
“Entrepreneurs need to understand what they earn, what they spend, and what they must set aside,” Quiroz said. “They need to know whether their prices cover their costs and how today’s decisions affect tomorrow’s plans.”
Babb said she hopes the Jacito series will reach more students through schools and HRCU’s financial literacy outreach.
“We can ensure that every child gets exposed to entrepreneurship so that they can be better versions of themselves,” Babb said.