Released April 24, 2009
URBANA, Ill. - When parents lose a job or are having trouble paying the bills, every member of the family suffers. But kids aren't totally powerless. There are many things children and teens can do to help even when their family's new situation is unfamiliar and scary, said a University of Illinois Extension family life educator.
"Unfortunately, unemployment can mean less money, more stress, and even schedule changes. Your parent may act like a different person--with their anger and frustration coming out in ways you can't understand. Mom may yell about things that would never have bothered her before. And Dad may not pay attention when you're talking," said Patti Faughn.
Be sure to take time to talk about the changes that are occurring with your parents and brothers and sisters. And listen to what they have to say, she said."
"Sometimes you may feel alone or worried about what's happening to your family. Angry outbursts, depression, and alcohol abuse are examples of serious problems that can occur when families are under stress. Sometimes these problems require outside help. Your school counselor, teacher, minister, doctor, or neighbor can help you find the support you need. Don't hesitate to talk to them," she said.
Here are some ways you can help when money is short:
- Think of things you've been spending money on that you can do without--movies, magazines, music, gas, or sodas.
- Think about ways to earn money—mowing lawns, babysitting, shoveling snow, or delivering papers.
- Think about ways to stretch the money your family does have--sew or mend clothing, garden, babysit for younger brothers and sisters, or prepare meals.
You can also help your family save on bills. Even little things help:
- Turn off the lights, television, stereo, and curling iron when not in use.
- Make fewer and shorter phone calls.
- Take shorter showers to cut down on hot-water use.
- Take clothes out of the dryer immediately to cut down on ironing.
- Dry clothes on a clothesline instead of in a dryer when possible.
- Hang your clothes up after wearing them so they won't need to be washed as often and will last longer.
- Don't stand with the refrigerator door open while deciding what to eat.
- Drink water, milk, and juices, which are healthier and less expensive than soda.
- Hang up the towel after your shower or bath so it can dry and be used again.
- Turn off water while brushing your teeth, and turn on a small stream for rinsing.
- Use less shampoo--only enough to clean your hair (too much lather is wasteful).
- Opt for generic brands of personal care products.
- Don't waste school supplies. Use both sides of paper.
- Don't be wasteful with food.
- Ride your bike or walk to your destination whenever possible.
- Give gifts of time and energy rather than money to friends and family.
Finally, here are some things you can do to help relieve stress and tension at home:
- Think about the things you do that make other people in your family angry. Find ways to avoid doing those things.
- Do extra chores. Help out without being asked.
- Clean up after yourself.
- Don't pick fights.
- Spend time caring for your younger brothers and sisters.
- Share your possessions and school supplies with other family members. And learn to be generous with your time.
- Keep a good sense of humor.
- Be enthusiastic about trying new foods.
- If a task needs to be done and you can do it, do it. It will be appreciated.
- Treat your family members with kindness. Be courteous; say please and thank you.
- Accept your parents' decisions in a positive way.
"One last thing you can do is tell your parents about U of I Extension's 'Getting Through Tough Times' website found at http://www.ToughTimes.illinois.edu. It has all kinds of helpful advice on handling the problems they may facing, including saving food dollars, avoiding money traps, handling stress, and more," she said.
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http://agbionews.sdstate.edu/story.cfm?id=4700
Contacts: Patti Faughn, (217) 782-6515, pfaughn@illinois.edu
Kathy Sweedler, (217) 333-4901, Sweedler@illinois.edu
Phyllis Picklesimer, 217-244-2827, p-pickle@uiuc.edu
