CEO Message
Keeping Families Strong in Tough Times
In these tough economic times many families are managing increased amounts of stress with fewer resources. Adults need to remember that although kids often can’t talk about their concerns, they are experiencing stress right along with us. It’s often hard for children to understand why their life has changed or why they have to adapt to doing without things they enjoy.
As adults we don’t have to pretend that everything is ok and that we are not experiencing stress. We can encourage kids to talk about their concerns because talking it out can provide great relief and reassurance. Children are very sensitive to adult’s moods and pick up on their family’s stress easily.
Stress is a part of everyday life and kids are no stranger to stress - they worry about school work, tests, peers and family issues. Many families are finding that learning to manage stress is something they can practice together. You can begin by allowing your children to talk about what is bothering them. Depending on their age, give them an explanation on what’s happening and why. By honestly sharing your thoughts you will encourage your children to talk about their concerns.
Parents and caregivers naturally worry about not being able to provide the things they want for their family. Yet some families are putting new ideas into practice to help their family enjoy spending time together without spending money. Most parents are all too familiar with the term“quality time” and carry the guilt of not being able to spend the amount time they would like with their kids. Adults’ lives are full of hurry, worry and activity. There are chores to accomplish that always seem more than can be managed. We often forget that the value of time isn’t measured by the number of hours a family spends together or the amount of material things we can afford. The level of connection and attention children receive from family members is a huge factor in their security, happiness and ability to weather stress.
Spending time together need not require that you do anything special. All it means is that you share your interest and attention. If you are overwhelmed with chores invite your kids to help. Kids feel important by contributing their effort to family tasks. This time can encourage more talking and sharing.
Learning new things together is a cost free activity kids enjoy. Try simple activities like taking a trip to the library together, reading out loud or going on a walk together. When you look for the free resources that exist in your neighborhood you may find many you have overlooked.
We invite you to add your neighborhood Family Resource Center to your list of new ideas. The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County supports six family resource centers which offer free services to families including classes, tutoring, play groups, internet access, community activities and more. With six locations throughout Hillsborough County, our Family Support and Resource Centers provide an encouraging and informative home base where families can learn new skills and make new friends. Family Support and Resource Centers offer a multitude of free services designed to help citizens of all ages enrich their lives. Learn more by contacting the Family Resource Center nearest you:
Brandon1277 Kingsway Road |
Plant City809 West Renfro Street |
Central Tampa1002 E. Palm Ave. |
Ruskin201 14th Ave. South East |
North Tampa1401-A E. Fowler Ave. |
Town 'N Country7520 W. Waters Ave., Ste. #8 |
Luanne J. Panacek, Ed.D.
Chief Executive Officer
Children’s Board of Hillsborough County
