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Home › Articles › Family › Raising Toddlers During Recession

Raising Toddlers During Recession

Tips for Communicating with Small Children in Hard Times

By Katherine Bontrager

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Dr. Porter recognizes that such family conversations are difficult. But in the midst of sharing this information, she urges parents to realize that every child needs assurance that she or he will be loved and have the necessities of life. "Brainstorming ideas and then trying them will help children feel that they're contributing to the family," she says. "Providing these experiences will help children learn to cope throughout their lifetimes when finances are challenged."

"Kids want approval, so keep that in mind," Dr. Goodman says. "It's a parent's job to provide a secure environment. Don't be afraid of the change you're introducing into their lives – after all, life is change. But be confident in what you're telling them. And I know it's really difficult not to have stress overflow into everyday life, but that's going to be one of your best strategies. It's hard to have a positive attitude, but if you're positive around your children, that's ideal because they pick up on your attitude sometimes more than the information. If you're a child going through upsetting changes, what's going to make you feel more secure and happy – a parent who's stressed and anxious or a parent who's trying to be upbeat and positive? So try to have a positive attitude even if you're not feeling positive."

Another essential key is to maintain as much predictability and routine as possible. It may be unavoidable that you have to move or cut back on a child's activities, but try to reinforce what will remain the same.

"Children are quick to notice change and so it's bout keeping things stable for them," Dr. Goodman says. "Strive to keep predictability and routine in a kid's life. If a daycare routine remains the same, focus on that. Say, 'You're going to the same school, with your same friends, but now Dad is picking you up.' You don't need to explain that Dad lost his job and that the family can't afford a sitter to pick up the child from daycare. But if the child can't go to the daycare anymore, then that's different. Say, 'We're saving some money now,' or 'Mommy/Daddy is going to be home more so she/he has time to stay and play with you. What kinds of things did you like from daycare and we'll do those things here?' Provide simple explanations, a description of the change, and then try to build back in that predictability."


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