Parents' tips on supporting children's wellbeing in the cost-of-living crisis

Topics mentioned: money and mental health

About: We asked parents and carers to share their thoughts about the impact of the cost-of-living crisis and money worries on children, and their advice on how to support them through this time. Here is a selection of the responses.

"If children see their parents are worried, they take on those worries. So let them know it will be okay and that we can brainstorm ways to save money, like turning equipment off rather than to standby. That way they feel they are contributing."

a parent

"I grew up very poor. My mother put her worries on me from a young age and my father wasn’t a great support, so I held a lot of burdens. Children can be told things are going to be tight, if age appropriate, but not overwhelmed with it."

a parent

“I work with young people and when we talk about money I ask what their specific worries are and we talk through those scenarios. We discuss how it’s parents’ responsibility to worry about money and that families can also get support from community groups and agencies. Talking is key to support young people with fears.”  

a professional working with young people

“I would tell young people that you can only pay what you have and not to be afraid to ask for advice or help.”

a parent

“My daughter and her boyfriend are moving into their first rented accommodation with friends soon. They do all their own cooking and we’ve talked about collecting all the supermarket coupons, fuel bills etc. She listens but she doesn’t seem as worried as me.”  

Janet, parent

“Make a family plan to cut costs by doing things like turning lights off, or putting jumpers on. Make it a team challenge.” 

a parent 

“My daughter’s friend has decided to stay at home rather than go away to a new city for university, so she can limit costs and also help her mum with childcare for her younger sibling.”  

Rachel, parent

“Teach them about money and budgeting; how to cook, cutting your cloth according to your means, what borrowing is good and what is bad. Skills are the answer.”  

a parent

“It doesn’t help that my daughters see so many young people who have made lots of money being “influencers” and order enormous online “hauls” on social media. It gives quite a warped sense of value and it makes it harder to put good intentions about talking to them about money into practice.”   

Louise, parent

“Young people are mobilising. Mine are 13 and 11 and polar opposites, but their friendship groups all agree that taking the system down is what’s needed. They are self-directed. It’s inspiring to watch the next generation get angry and I can’t wait to support what they do.” 

a parent

Our guide has more information and advice about looking after your own and your child's wellbeing through the cost-of-living crisis; the links between money worries and mental health; and how to find practical support for your family.