COVID-19 money worries can affect children’s wellbeing

It’s natural for parents to want to shield their children from the harsh realities of the world, like financial difficulties. They might be inclined to have private conversations with one another about the struggle, thinking that they can keep the child separate and safe from the worry.

However, if parents or carers are stressed, children can pick up on it very easily.

Many parents and carers are being furloughed, or even losing jobs.

Some are having their wages cut, and others are struggling to make ends meet.

And it’s important to recognise how this financial uncertainty is also impacting children and young people.

At Childline, we hear from a lot of young people who are nervous now.

Many of those have told us how their families have been struggling with money or job security during lockdown, with one boy saying:

“I’m really worried now; my mam and dad have been struggling with money this year and they finally got on top of it but I heard my mam saying that if she loses her job we’d only have enough money to last a month.

“I can’t sleep because of the worrying and I don’t know what to do.”

Amongst all of this, there are ways that we can help our children.

Though they may not understand finances fully, children can be aware of household changes, like more arguments, which can be very stressful for a child. As a result, it may be worthwhile to have an age-appropriate conversation with your child about your financial situation.

Encourage them to talk to you about their worries about money, and calmly explain the situation to them as best you can.

It can be useful to ask children to help with jobs at home. Not only does this help to take some of the pressure off you, but it helps them to learn what it takes to run a household. Remember, you can always signpost children to Childline, where they can access the calm zone to play relaxing games, and speak to a counsellor for free online over a 1-2-1 chat or on 0800 1111. Childline is yours – a free, private and confidential service where you can talk about anything.