FINANCIAL EDUCATION AND APPLIED ECONOMICS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY ANALYSIS ON CITIZENSHIP FORMATION

Abstract

This article analyzes the inclusion of applied economics in the early childhood education curriculum as a tool for the development of autonomy and critical awareness. The study investigates how concepts of resource management, sustainability, and decision-making influence the ethical development of children between 3 and 6 years old. Methodologically, a systematized bibliographic review was conducted, guided by PRISMA guidelines, integrating foundations of pedagogy, developmental psychology, and behavioral economics. The results indicate that early financial literacy contributes to the reduction of impulsive behavior and to the understanding of alterity. It is concluded that applied economics in early childhood is not restricted to monetary handling, but constitutes an essential pedagogical device for the formation of conscious and responsible citizens in the face of contemporary society challenges.