Strong Families Begin With Each of Us Getting Through Tough Times More with Less

A drop in or loss of income forces a change in a family’s spending priorities. For many families, build-ing on the strengths and skills of each family member and figuring out ways to save money can minimize the undesirable effects from a cut in income. Equally important is planning for family support and fun. Positive attitudes are more likely to result when family members work together to agree on ways to economize and to develop plans for having good times without spending much money. These tasks can become enjoyable if the family adds some sporting competi-tion. The family can vote on the winners of “best economizer ” and the “best fun activity costing the least ” award and give them a prize treat of some sort. Economizing really boils down to three basic surviva