REASSURE KIDS ABOUT COVID CASH WORRIES

A survey by BBC Newsround found that two-thirds of young people have been concerned about money during the pandemic. Emma explains how to help them feel safe and secure

Every part of what it means to be a healthy and happy young person has been challenged in the last year. BBC Newsround (a news show for youngsters) has surveyed children about their worries, and two thirds feel concerned about money. Normally, I would think this was thanks to a developing understanding of the role finances play in our lives, but in the last year kids have been subjected to too much worrying information, and we need to help undo the damage.

EXPLAIN THAT IT’S TEMPORARY

As a parent you can’t tell your kids not to worry – youth unemployment is rising and they are going to see and hear about that. And if they’re older they may even experience it themselves. If you have lost your job or it has been under threat thanks to coronavirus, they will know job insecurity is a real possibility that can have an impact on their wider life. However, the way you discuss this with your kids can make a huge difference.

LET THEM HELP

No matter how old they are, children look to their parents with trust, so if you reassure them that this is just a challenging period that you will try to navigate together, it will go a very long way in helping them manage emotionally. You can also help older kids feel they are making a positive contribution to your home by helping you do chores, and getting involved with budgeting for things like the food shop. This gives them a sense of purpose, not powerlessness.

MAKE FAMILY PLANS

As a family, treat this time as one that will pass, and that can also bring you together. Explain that, while you may not be able to afford expensive holidays or trips to theme parks when they open, you can still enjoy picnics, and invite their friends round for budget-friendly barbecues. The same survey found that 98 per cent of young people care most about family and friends, so these simpler, affordable options really are what they want. Discuss major cash concerns out of their earshot, and work to create a sense of normality, to help your kids feel secure. Remember, this time will eventually pass.