Three Things to Keep in Your Budget When Laid Off ... with Kids

When budgeting for a layoff, be sure not to strip your children’s lives of joy. Image credit: Kampus Production  

Recently, I lost my job. The VP of human resources cited the loss of a substantial federal grant as the cause and eliminated several positions. Like me, people all around the country are being impacted by cuts to federal spending initiated by the Trump Administration. National Public Radio says the administration's mass layoffs have targeted 220,000 federal probationary period employees and impacted departments including Education, Veteran Affairs and Small Business Administration. Forbes reports many more cuts loom for more Americans.   

My first thought, upon being laid off, was, “Do I tell my children?” I didn’t want to transfer my uncertainty or stress to them. I wanted to maintain a healthy, stable and joy-filled environment for us while I sorted things out.  

Ultimately, I decided to tell them, and their responses pleasantly surprised me. My youngest predicted bigger dreams for me than even I have (a famous singer and vegan chef). My oldest surprised me with direct questions about the state of my savings and my next steps. Fortunately, I had satisfactory answers. All this focus on dreaming big and questions about moving forward led to bigger discussions about how to use our gifts, the importance of responsible spending habits and keeping faith amid uncertainty.  Like mine, each child and situation will be different, so use discretion in what, when, how, or if you share your job loss.  

When you abruptly lose a source of income, your mind probably moves into “reduction mode.” You may become so surgical about reducing expenses you strip away important sources of joy. But wellbeing is paramount to maintaining a stable environment for your children during a layoff.  

So here are three things NOT to cut out of the budget, even when unemployed: 

Joy 

Make space to experience things you love on a budget. I try to keep one membership to one of my children’s favorite activities. Memberships to children’s museums and water parks come in handy when you have kids on a strict budget. And no matter what your bank account looks like, if you have gas/transportation, you can always get yourself and the children out of the house for a little fun.   Pro tip: Ask loved ones to gift these memberships for birthdays or Christmas. It will be a lot more useful than the toys kids play with for fewer than two weeks. 

Also research the days museums and venues offer free or discounted admission. Write the dates on your calendar, so you know your options before you get antsy or bogged down. This includes parks, trails, splash pads or beaches, especially if these opportunities are in the vicinity of a best friend. Getting out to get fresh air does wonders for your mood, mental health, and your body.  

Nature comes with fresh air, physical activity, emotional and mental boosts — all free.99! Image credit: Barbara Olsen

Enrichment  

Although cash may not be flowing, learning should never stop. After school and summer programs can be a hefty expense, and it can be tempting to justify cutting childcare from your budget when you’re no longer working. However, after school and summer camps do more than babysit. They are opportunities for social connection, academic enrichment, and exposure to new environments and activities. Participating in summer enrichment can reduce screen time, reinforce previous learning and give you much-needed time to plan your career pivot. 

The cost also does not have to be a burden. Look for free programs at schools, libraries, and community centers. Apply for camp scholarships and state childcare subsidies that may be available in your area. 

Health  

You only get one body, so no amount of “saving” is worth doing long-term damage to you or your children’s health. Don’t let your pride dig a hole in your bank account, credit cards, or your grave. Check your eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid. According to the Census Bureau, 1 in 6 people who qualify for benefits aren’t enrolled in the program. Let’s be real: The cost of food is high and doctors are expensive, but maintaining a healthy diet and access to early medical interventions improves your health and decreases your worry.  

I understand not everyone will be eligible for government support; there are still opportunities to contribute to your health that costs little to no money. Search for community gardens that may offer garden beds, seeds/plants, classes and sometimes food(s) at no cost.  

Being laid off can seem like tragedy, but it can also produce some life-changing pivots. Your path could easily get redirected to something greater. As my mentor Tamara Cress advises, “Allow yourself to enjoy life in between no longer and not yet.”