The Barnegat Township Recreation Department recently hosted its first “Big Ideas Market,” a special event designed to give young entrepreneurs the opportunity to experience what it’s like to run their own small businesses.
Stacey Fahringer, assistant recreation director, said 32 children participated, ranging in age from 6 to 13. The event was held indoors and gave each child the opportunity to set up a space to showcase and sell their products. Children were encouraged to come up with their own business ideas, prepare their products, determine pricing and interact with customers.
“The goal was to build confidence, encourage creativity and introduce real-world skills such as money management, communication and entrepreneurship,” she said. “The event was an extension of our summer Farmers Market and Kids Club programming, with an emphasis on giving children unique experiences beyond traditional recreation activities.”
Products included jewelry, baked goods, bookmarks, painted shells, lemonade, earrings and driftwood crafts
“As assistant recreation director, I wanted to create an opportunity where children could take an idea of their own and see it come to life,” said Fahringer. “It was exciting to see 32 young entrepreneurs step into the role of business owners. We’re always looking for creative ways to bring families together and offer programs that help children learn while having fun.”
