Hopeful Family Solutions In Tough Economic Times

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Family Spotlight Thoughts From Boys Town Hopeful Family Solutions In Tough Economic Times by Father Steven Boes (NAPSA)—Asour current eco- nomic crisis puts a strain on more families, it may be time for a Parenting Stimulus Package to keep our homes a nurturing place for our children. At Boys Town programs across the country, we know raising chil- dren is not easy even in times of prosperity. Families are struggling and those who are near the edge of despair are being put over the edge. There is hopeful news for families. Father Boes There are free or low cost, simple ways to makelife easier and improve your relationship with yourchildren. First, reassure your children things will work out even when money problems lead to parental disagreements. I am blessed to have grown up in a rural community. That didn’t mean we had an easy life and that my mom and daddid- n’t fight. We sometimes heard heated exchanges, but my parents were reassuring. They madeit a point to explain that adults sometimes disagree. They then gave each other a kiss in front of us, telling us they loved each other and us. Let your children know that families who love each other and are willing to work things out can overcome any problem. My family’s example is exactly what Father Flanagan spokeof: “There are no bad boys—Only bad environment, bad training and bad example.” Just like my folks, Boys Towntries to reassure its children by showing good exam- ples, providing good environments and good training. You, as parents, can do that, too. Something wefind keyto helping Boys Townchildren is training them to make good decisions. In our Common Sense Parenting program, we have a process called SODAS—Situation, Options, Disadvantages, Advantages and Solu- tion—that worksin any family. For example, money may be tight, and the children want to buy expensive video games. Par- enting with SODASwill present children with the Situation of what resources are available for recreation, food and clothes. The next step is to help them go through the Options of how to use those resources. You can teach your children to weigh the Advantages and Disadvantages of the Options. It will help them arrive at a reasonable Solution like renting a DVD, popping popcorn and enjoying an activity as a family. This solution will not only be less expensive, but will promote family togetherness—which is whatchildren really want. SODAS can be applied to almost any problem. It will create a bond between you and yourchil- dren and reduce problem behaviors because your children are part of the solution. My final messageis for families running out of options. Everyone needs help. Parents, no matter how tough it is, never give up on your children. However, if you are so tired and stressed you are about to give up; it is time to askfor help. Connect with a friend, family member, church or school group to get help. You can reach out to Boys Town. Our Boys Town National Hotline for parents and children is free. You can call (800) 448-3000 any time andfind a calm voice, problem-solving advice and a con- nection to resources in your community. You can visit parenting.org where you can find books and age- appropriate resources such as Common Sense Parenting. If we take a healthy body, mind and spirit approach as a family, we can weatherthis and any other crisis. Father Steven Boes is the National Executive Director of Boys Town, with a continuum of services helping children and families across the country and at affiliate sites in 12 states and D.C. Father Boes is a 20-year veteran of youth care work and advocacy.

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