Unemployment can be a very scary experience for an adult who is going through it. But what about your kids? Losing a job can be hard on the entire family but keeping this from your kids may lead them to speculate and can ultimately hurt their feelings. Here are some ways to help them understand how their family’s financial situation is changing.

Be honest to them

Have a talk in which the entire family is included. Everyone should be on the same page. Sit with your kids and tell them what the family is going through. They will have questions. Answer as honestly as possible. Make everything simplr and talk in kid-friendly language so the reality doesn’t strike them too harsh.

Reassure them

Even if you are hurting and frustrated, make it a point to be strong in front of your kids. Firstly, they see you as the leader of the family and rely on you to get them through this situation. Secondly, you are their role model. They are looking up to you for reactions. Tell them that that the family has to deal with the loss but they are always there for them. Kids may also think that your unemployment is their fault especially if they have recently asked for a toy or some other thing. Let them know that it is not their fault.

Family effort to cut down costs

Talk to the family about how you will be cutting down allowances and other costs due to limited funds. Older kids can help the family finances by taking up a part-time job while younger kids can help with the chores to share the burden of their parents who are looking for a new job.

Keep the routine of normalcy

Do everything like you used to do before you lost your job. If your family used to have dinner together, keep it that way. Keep the routine for kids, especially younger ones. When the environment around them doesn’t change, they perceive that everything will work out and are more likely to have positive feelings.

Consider getting help from a support group

If you need to talk, have a conversation with someone who has been in the same situation. Venting out at your kids can be a bit too much for them. Any uncertainty on your part will make them feel uncomfortable. Talk to people who have been through the same situation. It is good for you to know that you are not alone who is coping with unemployment. It will also boost your morale and fill you with hope for tomorrow.