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12 | r e d f c u.o r g e pandemic has served as a recent reminder of just how quickly life – and financial situations – can change. Pay cuts, job loss and debt are all hard topics to digest even as an adult, let alone talking to children about these changes. However, what you share about your finances with your kids, and how you share it, can have a lasting impact on their ability to process and cope – now and in the future. Here are some tips for having an honest financial conversation with your children that will ease their uncertainty and anxiety: Prepare for and schedule the talk. If you'll be explaining the situation with your partner, make sure you're on the same page and have a plan before sitting down with your children. Go over your finances and exactly how your family's short- and long-term lifestyle will change. If you're a single parent, consider talking with a trusted loved one first and seeking their advice. en, schedule a time and place that allows for a calm, relaxed conversation and also ensures you have everyone's attention and won't catch them off guard. Be honest but stay positive. Let your kids know exactly how the family's lifestyle will change. Give examples, such as "We will have to cancel our streaming services" or "You can't buy that brand of athletic shoe because it is too expensive." Answer their questions but keep things concise and simple, and balance the tough stuff with reassuring messages of love and togetherness. Be sure to point out what things they will still be able to enjoy – and that the changes won't all last forever. Keep communication channels open. Afterwards, try to transition into a normal, routine family activity, like making dinner or playing a game outside. Kids might need some time to process and may think of questions later, so be open to revisiting the conversation. DISCUSSING FINANCIAL CHANGES CHILDREN wh your