Laid Off: Telling the Kids

Losing your job is an ever increasing reality these days and aside from the shock and 'what do I do now' thoughts, you are facing telling your kids about the situation. This could be a tough job but it's doable if you stay honest and help to understand what's going on. You're going to have to tell them eventually so it's better to do it early; you'll be spending a lot of time around the house and they are going to want to know why. They're just like everyone else when they're facing change; the first question in their minds is "How does this affect me?".



How you deliver the news is depends on the age of your kids; not just the chronological age but their maturity. Be age specific with the message. I'm addressing those of you with kids over 5-7 years; the younger ones are less affected obviously. If you are a family of Faith (or even if you're not), begin with a prayer for guidance and wisdom.



1. Be honest. For the kids under 11 or so, Daddy or Mommy doesn't work at the office anymore and is looking for a new job. If there is a possibility that a relocation may be in the cards, tell them. I suspect that it's rare that any child is going to say "Great! Where are we moving to?". It's more like a "But, I don't want to move," statement. Depending on how mature your kids are, you have to explain that you, too don't want to move and you'll do everything you can to stay here but we may move. It's little consolation for a stressful situation but the kids will know that you're straight with them.



2. Give them some updates. This is a tough call especially in today's tight job market but if you can say something at the dinner table like, "Kids, I've been in contact with a lot of companies and I'm sure something will happen soon. Just wanted to let you know that it sometimes takes a while to find a new job." You should anticipate the "Will we have to move?" or "Do we have enough money?" questions and be ready to reassure them that you everything is fine for now and you won't know about the rest until you get a real job. Pray a lot.



3. Show them the love. Kids get stressed out, too. Make sure that they know that you're working for the family and you are all going to be alright. It's a good place to have the talk about how life is full of challenges and this is just one that we will over come.



All the best to you and you're in my prayers!