Lots of Families Are Making Changes
Melody is 9 years old, her brother Shane is 11. Shane wanted a
new skateboard for his birthday and tickets to the big game.
Melody's mom finally thinks she's old enough to take care
of a pet, but she still doesn't have the kitten she longs to
have. When they mention the skateboard or the kitten, their mom and
dad sound annoyed and say they just can't afford it right now.
What's going on?
Lots of families are having money troubles these days. For some,
it may be felt in small ways, like going to the movies less often
or using more coupons at the grocery store. But for other kids,
money problems are causing bigger changes, such as a parent taking
on a second job or the family having to move to a different, less
expensive house.
This can be hard because kids usually like everyday things in
their life (school, home, friends, weekend activities) to stay the
same. Grown-ups are often that way, too. Kids also like treats. Who
doesn't? But money problems can mean fewer treats and other
changes. For instance, if your mom gets a second job that can mean
she's not at home as much as she usually is.
If money problems are affecting your family, it might help to
understand that lots of people are having the same trouble.
Sometimes, money gets tight because something happens to just one
family - like someone getting sick or someone losing a job.
But the kind of money trouble going on right now is happening to
many families. In fact, if you watch the news or read a newspaper,
you'll see stories about it every day.
Trouble With Gas and Home Loans
Two big things have happened in the past 2 years: The price of
gas went up a lot and a big problem occurred with loans that
grown-ups get to buy houses. Higher gas prices make it more
expensive to drive places and might be why your family isn't
going on many long trips. Some grown-ups who used to drive a car to
work are now taking a bus, train, or riding a bike.
Gas prices also make everything else more expensive. That's
because a lot of things (food, toys, drinks, clothes, etc.) get
taken to stores by trucks or trains that use gas, too.
The problem with home loans is more complicated. The end result
is that the monthly payments that people make on home loans -
called mortgages - have become more expensive than some people can
afford. And because of that, some banks are going out of business
or being sold to other banks.
Banks loan people money to buy houses. If adults can't
afford to pay these monthly payments, the bank has to sell that
home and the family will need to find another place to live.
Anytime a kid has to
move
it can be tough, but it would be especially hard if a family was
forced to move.
Grown-Up Problems Affect Kids
Money problems are adult problems, but they can affect kids. A
kid would naturally be concerned if his or her family has money
problems, but kids don't need to solve those problems.
That doesn't mean you can't help out, though. Sometimes
it helps to try to be very grown up and not complain or get too
upset when you can't have something you really want. If you
need to get some complaining out, you might write it down or talk
to someone who will understand, like a big sister, grandparent, or
school counselor.
You might also create a "Wish List" of items you'd
like to get when things are better, or at birthday or holiday time.
When you want something, write it down. Next to it, write how much
you want it on a scale of 1 to 10.
Are Your Parents Stressed Out?
When grown-ups worry about money, it can come out in different
ways. Some people seem tired, upset, quieter than usual, or are
more likely to yell. Sometimes, parents argue with one another
about money troubles. It's great if you can try to talk with
your mom or dad about what's bothering you. If you can't
talk to them, try to talk with someone. Usually, talking things out
makes us feel better.
It also helps to remember that times will get better. House
prices and gas prices go both up and down, so what's bad now
can - and likely will - get better down the road. In time, the
grown-ups that care for you will find solutions to their money
troubles.
Being a creative kid can make things a little better right now.
Try these ideas if you need a boost today.
Have a Yard Sale
Most households have a lot of stuff they no longer need or want.
A yard sale can clear out the junk and raise money at the same
time. You'll need to ask your parents first, but it makes a
great family project. You might ask if you can keep the money from
any of your items that are sold.
Be of Service
Your mom or dad might be willing to pay you something for being
extra helpful, such as babysitting a brother or sister, or for
doing extra chores. With your parents' OK, you could offer your
services to a neighbor or friend in need. Are there leaves on the
ground, snow on the sidewalk, or a car that needs to be washed?
You're just the person for the job!
Find Fun That's Free (or Pretty Cheap)
What if you're bored and broke? Here's a list of ideas
to get you started on your free and low-cost fun!
- Volunteer at an animal shelter.
- Have a tea party for your friends.
- Go to a park in your area that you've never been to.
- Be a guest chef and cook a low-cost, but yummy, dinner for
your family (spaghetti or rice dishes are usually cheap).
- Have game night for your friends or family. For a change of
pace, play old-fashioned board games instead of video and
computer games.
- Make it movie night at home with a DVD and homemade snacks.
- Visit free museums or visit them on days when it's free
to get in.
- Make a collage or create a scrapbook of favorite photos. This
makes a great gift!
Reviewed by:
Michelle New, PhD
Date reviewed: October 2008
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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