Let's face it:  news about the US and the economic downturn is everywhere.  And chances are, your kids are hearing a lot about it, in school, from other kids, and on TV.  So, my rule of thumb is, if you cannot ignore it, it needs to be discussed.  Yet, there are ways to discuss and ways to discuss.  A positive approach is the best idea, focusing on the concrete ways that your kids may feel the economic downslide.  Here are some ideas:

1. If your child is already struggling with his or her mental health, they may be more prone to gloom-and-doom analysis of things anyway.  If this is the case, explain to your child that, while things are not great with the economy, the economy is like a rollercoaster.  Sometimes it's up, sometimes it's down, but for every down, there's an "up" right around the corner. 

2.If the economy is causing hardships to your finances, don't try to hide it.  Your kids will know anyway.  Just make sure that they are not blaming themselves.  Explain to them that "this year, we may not be able to get the same size holiday presents as last year because we are not making enough money.  It's not your fault, and we aren't punishing you in any way for being bad." 

3. If you are stressed about finances, try to manage that stress and not take it out on your children.  Be honest with them: "Mom is feeling a little stressed today about our finances, but I'm working hard, and I know that it's going to get better.  I may just need to take a little break today."


4.  Let them know that no matter what your financial situation is, you love them very much, and as a family, you will get through this tough situation.  Your kids will really understand.  I remember that in the downturn of the 1980's my dad was stressed about finances.  I was in second grade, and I wrote him a card that said "Even if we live in a small shack, our love will not lack."  At the end of the day, love is what matters to kids a lot more than money. 

Be Well
~Emily