Children sense more than we think. They do not need numbers – they need closeness, honesty, and security.

For example: "Sometimes adults have too little money. But you are safe. And you are important."

🧭  Your step today: Reflect on what your child may already have noticed:

 

• "Dad is often tired."
• "We are buying less right now."
• "You ask why we are not traveling."

 

Say one sentence that is honest and loving:

 

• "I have little money at the moment, but you are safe."
• "I take care of things, even when some are difficult."
• "You may ask – I am here."

 

And one sentence that gives hope:

 

• "We will make the best of it – together."

🚫  What children do not need

 

Children do not need numbers, blame, or fear. They need you – honest, calm, and attentive.

 

❌ What you may leave out:

 

• Too many details
  "I have 12,000 euros of debt with three banks …"
  → Children do not understand this – and it only worries them unnecessarily.
  
  
• Self‑devaluation
  "I am a failure."
  → Children sense this – and it unsettles them deeply.
  
  
• Shifting responsibility onto the child
  "If you didn’t want so much …"
  → Children are not to blame – even if they ask many questions.
  
  
• Hints that cause fear
  "I don’t know what will happen next …"
  → Children need hope, not open threats.

🌿  What children need instead

 

• Clarity
  "Money is tight right now. But I am taking care of things."
  
  
• Closeness
  "You may ask. I am here."
  
  
• Dignity
  "Even when some things are hard – you are important."

Children do not need perfect parents – they need you, honest and attentive.