Updated June 2026
Money conversations are some of the hardest a parent can have. There's the worry about saying too much, the worry about saying too little, and the quiet fear that your child already senses something is wrong.
The good news is that you don't need a script or all the answers. Children are more resilient than we often give them credit for - and an honest, calm conversation, pitched to their age, will almost always reassure them more than silence.
This page covers the questions we hear most from parents navigating financial difficulty during the school holidays - with advice from parents who've been there too.
Skip to what you need:
How do I talk to my child about the cost-of-living crisis?
Children pick up on more than we realise. A tightened budget, a cancelled activity, overheard conversations, a change in mood - these things register even when we haven't said a word. If your child is asking questions, or you sense they're picking something up, an honest and calm response is usually the kindest thing you can do.
You don't need to explain the full picture. What children need is reassurance that the adults around them are handling things, and that they are safe. "Things cost more at the moment so we're being careful with money - it's nothing for you to worry about" is a complete, reassuring answer for most children. It gives them a frame for what they're sensing without burdening them with detail they can't do anything about.
For younger children, keep it simple and concrete. Swap an expensive activity for a free one and name the reason briefly - then move on. For older children and teenagers, a little more honesty is often appreciated. You might acknowledge that things are harder than usual, that lots of families are finding it tough right now, and that you're managing it together. Involving them in small decisions - choosing a free activity, helping plan a budget shop - gives them a sense of agency, which is far better for their wellbeing than feeling helpless.
What to avoid: dismissing their questions, or making promises about the future that depend on circumstances you can't control.
What parents in our community say:
“I’d keep it simple but also use it as a chance to teach them about money in an age‑appropriate way. Kids don’t need the scary details, but they do benefit from learning the basics of budgeting, saving, and why families sometimes have to make choices. I’d say: “Things cost more at the moment so we’re being careful with money. It’s nothing for you to worry about, but it’s good to learn how to budget and make smart choices.” It reassures them while helping them understand the world around them.” - Emmeline
“I’m not exactly an expert on this, but I will say it’s actually been useful for my Year 6 child to be involved in daily budgeting and my attention to prices, for example comparing the cost of different brands or dinner options at the supermarket, has helped him with maths. He’s starting to make smart choices and will say things to me like “if we walk to the park instead of taking the bus, can we use the money to get ice cream?” On the other hand I don’t want him to feel anxiety, so when it comes to essential food, clothing, bills, or anything related to school like trips, I avoid discussing my budget with or in front of my kids, as I don’t want them to worry.” - Thea
Matthew, five, with Dad Alan at Dadbods' Sunday meetup, Belfast Anna Sass
How do I talk to my child if they notice I'm struggling?
If your child has noticed you're struggling and asked about it, that's usually a sign they feel safe enough to bring it to you. That matters.
The instinct to protect children from worry is a good one - but brushing off their concern can sometimes make things worse. If a child senses something is wrong and is told nothing is, they may imagine something far more serious than the reality, or simply stop asking, which closes off the conversation.
A simple, honest response works best. Something like: "You're right that things are a bit hard at the moment. We don't have as much money as we'd like, but we're making it work - and it's not something you need to worry about, that's my job, not yours." That gives them the truth, removes the burden from them, and reassures them that you're in control.
If your child seems anxious rather than just curious, ask them what they're specifically worried about. Children's worries are often very concrete - will we have to move, will there be food, can I still see my friends - and addressing the actual fear is more reassuring than a general "it'll be fine."
It's also worth telling them that what your family is going through is something lots of families are dealing with, and that it isn't anyone's fault.
What a parent in our community says:
“I’d be honest but reassuring, and use it as a chance to teach them about emotions and coping. I’d explain the “stress bucket” in a simple way — everyone has one, and when too much goes in, it feels heavy. Then I’d show them healthy ways to empty it: talking, taking breaks, doing things we enjoy, moving our bodies, breathing. I’d say: “You’ve noticed I’m stressed. It’s not your fault. My stress bucket is a bit full, but I’m managing it and we’re okay.” It teaches them emotional awareness and resilience.” - Emmeline
Teddy, five and his mum Chloe take part in Families Connect activities, in Belfast
What do I do if my child is being bullied because other children have noticed we're struggling?
This is painful - and sadly, not uncommon. The most important thing is to make sure your child knows that what's happening to them is not their fault, and not something to feel ashamed about.
Talk to the school as soon as you're aware of it. Schools have a responsibility to address bullying behaviour, and most will take it seriously. It's worth asking them to look not just at the behaviour but at what's behind it, so it doesn't continue once the immediate situation is dealt with.
At home, keep the conversation open. Let your child know they can come to you, and that you'll sort it together. Remind them that the problem lies with the bully's behaviour, not with your family's circumstances.
What parents in our community say:
“My daughter hasn’t had this, but I do think primary schools have put a lot in place to make things more equal — like universal uniforms and less pressure around brands. Secondary can be harder, but the message should still be the same: be kind. Bullying is never acceptable.
It’s also important to understand why the bullying is happening. Often it comes from insecurity, copying behaviour they’ve seen, or not knowing how to manage their own emotions. Schools should deal with the behaviour but also look at what’s behind it so it doesn’t continue. It’s about protecting the child being bullied while also helping the bully learn better ways to behave.” - Emmeline
Kyah, two & Sadie on a Summer of Play camping trip, Sheffield
How do we enjoy the school holidays when we can't afford to go away?
A holiday away isn't what makes the school holidays memorable for children. Time, attention, and small moments of fun are what they actually remember.
That said, financial pressure during the holidays is real, and "just enjoy the simple things" isn't much help if you're worried about how to fill six weeks. So here are some practical anchors:
Libraries are more than books. Most run free holiday activities - crafts, story times, coding clubs, reading challenges. They're also cool on hot days and have free internet. Find your nearest library through your local council website.
Check your council's Holiday Activities and Food programme. If your child receives benefits-related free school meals, they may be entitled to free holiday clubs with activities and meals included. Search for your council's HAF programme.
Museums and galleries are free and made for families. The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Tate galleries, and many local museums offer free entry and free family workshops. Check their websites for holiday programming.
Parks and outdoor spaces cost nothing. A walk with a mission - spotting five birds, finding something from every colour of the rainbow, building a den - turns a free afternoon into an adventure.
Give the day a shape. Structure makes holidays feel purposeful even when activities are simple. A loose routine - morning activity, lunch, afternoon free time - gives children something to hold onto.
And if you want more ideas, our free things to do with kids during the school holidays page has a full guide.
What a parent in our community says:
“You don’t need a holiday to make the holidays feel special. Children remember time, attention, and fun — not the price tag.
I’d plan a mix of simple things: free local events, park days, picnics, movie nights at home, baking, crafts, or exploring new walks.
Lots of museums are free, and they’re brilliant for a day out — especially when the weather’s hit and miss.
Libraries also run great holiday activities. It’s always worth asking friends, school parents, or local groups for ideas too — people often know hidden gems you’d never find on your own. You can even make a “holiday at home” list together so the children feel involved. It’s the little moments that stick with them.” - Emmeline
Brothers Bradley, four, Ethan, seven & Ava, six, drink hot chocolate on a Summer of Play camping trip, Sheffield
Where to go if you need financial support this summer
If money is really tight this school holiday, don't wait to ask for help. Our help with costs during the school holidays page has clear guidance on uniform grants, food banks, the Holiday Activities and Food programme, and more.
You can also call the Help through Hardship helpline on 0808 208 2138 - free, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, England and Wales. Advisers can check what you're entitled to and refer you for emergency food if you need it.
