An animated explanation of the 2008 financial meltdown simplified for kids to understand. The video begins with the relationship between money and debt (i.e. promises), and how this balance looks in the mortgage word and in the securitization world. Next, the relaxation of legislation in 1999 allowing banks to participate in both worlds is shown to have precipitated a bubble, eventual collapse, and a seizing up of the system of credit.

Still, I'll be very impressed by any kid who can understand the credit crisis after watching this 4 minute explanation.