|
Family, Children, The Recession...
By Ringer in Knowledge is power- if you use it- keep it to yourself and it's worthless.
July 24, 2009 |
Well meaning parents often avoid talking "recession" with their kids, thinking they don't need to be burdened with such matters. But it's a mistake to assume children are oblivious. Kids are very tuned into their parents emotional state and know "somethings" happening in their home. So rather brush the issue under the rug, use this as a chance to teach your children how to deal with adversity in a positive way.
If the recession has a direct impact on your family, even if that means you've cut back on spending, you can use this experience to teach children how to navigate through tough times. Talk about your economic situation as a challenge the family will tackle together. Instead of telling a child you can't afford "this or that", explain everyone in the family is doing their part to save money and survive this recession. Ask your child for ideas on how they would "cut-back" their spending. Socializing suggestions from kids gives them a feeling of control and helps to reduce anxiety and fear.
Last, parents should take a minute to do a little self-reflection. If your stressed it's important to say: "I'm going through a tough time but it's not your fault." And, the good news is, with this dark economic cloud over our heads more and more people are starting to use cash: Debt levels are falling and personal savings are on the rise. Experts predict that the next generation will be even more wise about money- especially if children grow up learning a few financial lessons from their moms and dads.
"Approached wisely, the recession offers the opportunity to educate children about finances, instill strong values, and strengthen family ties." 
© 2009 Ringer: All rights reserved No reproduction without prior written permission
Print- •
-
Share
- Share this item
-
Grab the link
Copy and paste the link:
- Blog about it
- Close
- •
-
3 Comments
Follow Ringer
Comments
I have been saying the same thing for years but was toll to chill out things are changeing.I like change when it is good not what we have now.
July 26, 2009 at 6:05 a.m.I agree old rusty bucket, kids do need to learn the differance between wants and needs, great comment! However, I'd almost have to agree with the statement: "there are no bad kids only bad parents," makes sense, sad as it is- I believe that's true too...
July 25, 2009 at 1:38 p.m.HEY ONE RINGY DINGY, TWO RINGY DINGY,...Good post. This setback should be a big blessing with parents following your great suggestions. I've long lamented that the last few generations have received a big screwin'. They don't know how to work because they haven't been ALLOWED to. All these "child labor laws" have PROTECTED'EM plumb out of the work force. Being without chores at home deprives them of learning responsibility and working as a team. It also reinforces the mistaken attitude that society OWES them something without ever breaking a sweat. If mama always picks up after 'em at home, who's going to do that the rest of their lived? Having to earn their own spending money and learn to budget for what they NEED and know the difference between NEED and WANT. Learning RESPONSIBILITY should give 'em a sense of accomplishment and pride in a job well done. NEARLY everyone has a built in need for recognition, this is a lot better than drifting into gangs for a sense of belonging. Some say, "There's NO bad kids, just BAD parents. SADLY, to say, this malady goes back to the BEAT and HIP generations (1950s & 60s)
July 25, 2009 at 2:17 a.m.