When family ties are stressed by finances
With an ever tightening economy many families are finding themselves deep in debt with shaky job prospects and the stress is running over into their families. Today's families already face mounting pressures but along with financial stress the ties that bind families together can be weakened considerably. Adults may find themselves so overwhelmed with trying to deal with financial pressures that they neglect to nurture the family unit. Children may not fully understand what is causing the increased stress in their home and even blame themselves and withdraw from family life. But the good news is that no matter how difficult the financial times are for your family there are ways that you can increase the bonds that hold your family together and perhaps even draw closer. Here is what you should be doing when family ties are stressed by finances-
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- Take joy in the simple things. Families are finding that with limited final resources they are forced to revert back to simpler times. Game night with everyone around the table can create lasting memories. For a memorable afternoon you may want to gather everyone around to work on a craft, a do-it-yourself home repair or even create a new recipe that can become a family heirloom. Whatever you do remember that it is the time that is spent together not the money spent that is important.
- What to do when the entertainment budget is gone. Families that are used to 100's of cable channels, going out to movies and other expensive venues and owning recreational vehicles may find themselves having to cut these non-essential expenses. However in its' place you still have lots of fun family time. Families are reporting how a weekly movie night (videos are cheap to rent) with popcorn and treats are bringing them closer. Make it a contest to see who in the family can find the most cost efficient entertainment in your area. With lots of free community events you may find your entertainment schedule busier then ever!
- Do not overestimate the importance of the family dinner. While experts have been stressing for a long time that families should eat dinner together with the crunch on most people's budgets this has become more commonplace. Families are rediscovering the joy of gathering around the dinner table to talk and share experiences they have had during the day. Cooking at home saves considerable money (and is usually much more nutritious) then eating out. Families that once thought nothing of eating out several times a week are reconnecting around the dinner table. For a fun twist try having a picnic in the backyard (or the park), have each family member cook a surprise for dinner or ask a family friend who cooks well to come over for a free cooking lessons (since you provide the ingredients, prep and cleanup all they will need to provide is the expertise).
- Do not over react! Your kids will sense if there really is a financial crisis brewing by how you act. Reassure your kids that while you may need to cut some corners everything will be o.k. This can lesson the stress that many children have that somehow this is their fault or that they will be homeless and hungry because their family ran out of money. Where appropriate have your kids work with you on trimming your budget to relieve financial problems. Family members are usually much more willing to sacrifice if they have had a say in what needs to be cut. This can also increase the strength of family ties. You can also use this time to help teach your kids about wise financial management and help set them on a path to financial solvency in their futures.
