I probably shouldn't go into TOO much detail, but my Dad is SUPER stressed because he's in debt, trying to afford school for us kids, and isn't sleeping enough!
I try to help out with a little money now and then, but I don't even have a job! And with school going on, I'm really stressed out too, and stress kind of gives everyone an attitude I think! :-(
He tries to act cheerful and be a good sport, but I can see through it and I think he knows that; which is stressing him more!
What can I do to help???
2006-09-11 15:11:43 · 11 answers · asked by Horseluver_gurl 1 in Family & Relationships ➔ Family
If your Dad is trying to hide these financial problems by putting on a happy/brave front then respect his wishes and don't add to his worries by worrying yourself. Adults are in a better position to cope with money problems than kids are and he realizes this,that is why he tries to hide it. In the meantime, a babysitting job could allow you to take some of the pressure off of him because you can buy your own clothes and have your own spending money without making it obvious that you are trying to help out. And study hard to get the best grades you can and apply for as many college scholarships as you are allowed.....this is one of the best gifts you can give your dad....hope for the future.
2006-09-11 15:25:12 · answer #1 · answered by jidwg 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
All parents have a financial dip now and then. The problems you describe are adult problems and should be left to the adults. You obviously are a caring and observant teen-ager. To not upset the apple cart anymore than what it is, talk to your dad. Don't say hey I can earn extra money to help out wit the bills but rather Hey dad I thought about trying to baby sit or rake leaves to earn some extra cash so I can start buying my own clothes and for movies and etc. He will tell you quickly if he likes the idea or not. The family is a unit and it takes all of the folks in the unit to make it work. The other thing you can do is help out around the house if you don't already. Nothing makes a stressed parent feel less stressed than to come home and see the trash has been taken out, the dog walked and fed, laundry done and dinner started. Good luck to you! I hope your dad realizes how loved he is!
2006-09-12 02:44:42 · answer #2 · answered by cytopia1 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Get a job and work on the weekends. You can buy your own clothes and lunch money. You can make you lunch and bring it to school. Lay off on extra curricular activties. On the weekends you can play board games or watch DVDs you already have - this costs no money and it may relieve some stress on your dad doing something fun as a family.
Also, be conscious of the water, lights and air conditioning in the house. Turn off the lights when you walk out of a room. Don't just let the water run and take quicker showers. You can keep the a/c on 78-80 - only turn it down at night when you go to bed. It may seem warm at first, but my family is used to it. Acutally when we walk into other buildings or restaurants we are always cold.
You are a sweet girl who has concern for her father, but your dad will be fine - I am sure this is not the first time. Just those few things will help.
2006-09-11 15:18:20 · answer #3 · answered by totalstressor 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What a sweet child... Listen to him, try to do things that will make him happy...like cleaning up and helping around the house as much as you can. Try to take away a little of the everyday stress by doing these things.... I know it does not help, but many, many families are in the same predicament as you, it is a rough time in the world right now...I wish you the best, and want you to know it is a special kid who has your outlook in this day and age... You are to be commended, I sincerely hope everything works out for you !!!!!
2006-09-11 15:19:22 · answer #4 · answered by mobileminiatures 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
if you can get a job that would help but im sure your dad wont want you being streesed to from his mistakes he wouldnt want you to mess up with school i think the best thing to do is not ask for things all the time, help out with the house and other siblings if there are any try to make his home life a little less stressful just be there for him be supportive, he will appreciate it more than anything else. hope it gets better
2006-09-11 15:15:43 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can help by not worrying about adult problems. Go to school, enjoy being a teenager, have a positive attitude at home andd allow your parents to deal with their own life problems.
2006-09-11 15:15:33 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
just do well in school- don't make him think that you are lacking anything during this time. help when you can and turn off lights when you aren't in the room and be careful to not be wasteful with food or supplies. Good luck!
2006-09-11 15:19:58 · answer #7 · answered by ednolb 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
all i can say is dont stress to much and the only thing you could really do is start babysitting. that would give you extra money. Just dont make it worse for him.
2006-09-11 15:15:20 · answer #8 · answered by Amy s 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just do what you supposed to do (chores, etc) and stay out of trouble. I'm sure he'll appreciate it. When you old enough see if he'll let you get a job.
2006-09-11 15:18:27 · answer #9 · answered by Kiesha 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
if you want to help out financialy you could always do small jobs
such as-babysitting,raking leaves,moeing,help with yard work.
when you hit 16 you can get a regular min wage job
2006-09-11 15:17:05 · answer #10 · answered by purpleskunk77 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋