A Life of Simple JoyReducing stress, increasing joy one post at a time!

I don’t have to tell you that times are tough. If you and your family aren’t experiencing difficulties personally, then you have seen the problems on the news and online. Odds are, though, you’re going through some lean times. This leaves you feeling uncertain, even anxious from time to time. This is when you need to call on F*A*I*T*H:

FAMILY: When things are difficult, you must lean on and rely on those closest to you. Be honest with your spouse and children. If money is tight, let them know. You need to get everyone on board if you want this to work. You don’t need to scare your kids, making them think the family finances are about to collapse. However, this is the perfect time to teach your kids about family finance and budgets. If they are old enough, get their input and ideas on ways to economize. Make it a family project. Teach kids how to clip coupons. Let them plan the menu and offer a treat to the one who comes up with the least expensive but nutritious meal. Take the kids along to the grocery store and let them do the shopping. Kids are great when it comes to finding the best bargains. Tell them what the budget is for the weekly grocery shopping, give them the list and let them know something special can be purchased with the money saved. It can be a special dessert or the money can be saved up for a special event for the entire family. This is only one way to teach your kids about budgeting and running a household. Combine your imagination with your kids’ enthusiasm and your family will not only get through the current crisis but also any other difficult times in the years ahead.