Kids aren’t stupid.  They know that something is going on.  They hear the news and read headlines that shout about recession, downturn, layoffs, depression, decline…and they worry.  They worry even more if you and your spouse are worried. 

Kids need security, but they need it to come honestly.  So, how can you talk to your kids about the economic hard times that most Americans are facing without scaring them?  Here are some tips.

• Avoid TMI.  Kids don’t need to know the gory details.  If your 401K has declined, that’s not for them to worry about.  Stick to general truths and overall pictures.

• Be honest with the big picture.  Kids need to know that there’s going to be a little less money for extras.  They can handle it.  Even if the belt tightening is more severe that you hoped, let them know what’s going on.  You can even say, “It’s a little harder than we expected.”

• Enlist their help.  Remind them to turn off lights, and to wear a sweater instead of turning the heat up.  Tell them that the big family vacation is not possible this year, but then get their suggestions for fun activities closer to home. 

• Stay positive.  Hard times don’t last forever, and much of life’s sweetness transcends money.  Remind the kids that the sacrifices are temporary, and point out that it doens’t have to affect their enjoyment of theit favorite things. 

• Reach out.  It helps all of us, kids included, to be reminded that even if things are hard, we’re better off than some people are.  Volunteer to help at a food pantry or soup kitchen.  It reminds you of your blessings, and it makes you a part of the solution.  Kids have a heart for the suffering, and can learn these lessons alongside everyone else.

Kids know something is going on, so don’t make them more anxious by hiding things from them.  Let them in on it, appropriately for their age and understanding.  After all, economic hard times affect the whole family.

*Photo courtesty of the Austin TimesHerald.com

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