Economy and Families

The economy affects students and their families at home and at school. All types of media like radio, television, and magazines continue to talk about the nation’s economic status. Businesses, schools, and families are actively looking for ways to do more with less. The newest form of mass communication, the Internet, has some super ways to assist families with the stresses and challenges related to the economy.
The following sites are a sample of some creative ways to meet the new demands of tough economic times:
http://www.daveramsey.com – Dave provides easy tips to live frugally, as well as, steps to get out of debt and to control spending. He is the author of Total Money Makeover available at many libraries.
http://www.freecycle.org – This organization is comprised of groups around the country that offer items free of charge. The system is based on the principle of “give and take”. If your family has items no longer needed, such as children clothes or shoes, the items may be offered to other families free of charge. In the same token, your family might find the right size of clothes for a child at your house. The concept of trading or hand-me-downs is “old hat” – meaning people have been swapping for years. The Internet has expanded the potential of successful matches through the marvels of networking people and objects together in a manner much more efficient than ever before in the history of America. Kansas exchanges are a reality. Several groups exist across state.
http://www.flylady.net – Generally, organization tips and time management ideas could aid almost any American family in these times of hustle and bustle. You may recall the old adage “time is money” or “Don’t work harder; work smarter.” This website can give families ideas on how to take control of home management through learning and applying improved time management and organization tips. Via a Yahoo group individuals may receive daily e-mails of encouragement and specific duties to perform daily. In addition to time management and organization tips, the Flylady’s website also offers creative ways to deal with waste prevention and financial management.
http://www.budget101.com – This site presents some neat ideas for living more frugally with Information about saving money on groceries and gifts, plus, an inside track on freebies. Search for the “Frugal Living Articles” button on the left to navigate to key information quickly.
Changing from old habits to new approaches can be overwhelming and stressful. Experts suggest starting to make adjustments slowly in a few areas of your family’s current lifestyle. A continuum of added savings, budget, and time management will help ease the stress of economic times and busy families. Make sure to keep a record of the before and after values in order to measure progress over a period of a year. Just think maybe the savings will generate avenues for extra money to be spent on a dream family vacation. The possibilities are endless when we take action in positive directions!