Coffee morning catch-up - January 30th

Date: Friday 30th January 2026
Topic: Parenting Through cost-of-living pressures

Thank you to everyone who joined our January virtual coffee morning. For parents and carers who were unable to attend, below is an overview of the discussion, key themes, and practical strategies shared during the session.

Welcome and introduction

We began by briefly reflecting on last month’s session on Online Safety & Managing Digital Influence and introduced January’s focus: Parenting Through Cost-of-Living Pressures. We acknowledged the very real financial stress many families face and the impact this can have on both adults and children.

Key message shared:

“Children can sense stress and uncertainty – our aim is to support them while also taking care of ourselves.”

Understanding the impact of financial stress

Parents discussed how financial pressures affect day-to-day family life and the emotional wellbeing of children.

Key points included:

  • Children feel secure when they see adults coping calmly.
  • Emotional security comes from consistent routines, clear expectations, and open communication.
  • Age-appropriate honesty helps children understand changes without feeling burdened.

Discussion prompts included: noticing changes in behaviour, mood, or engagement and how conversations about money have been received by children.

Maintaining routine and emotional security

Maintaining predictable routines was highlighted as a simple but powerful way to provide stability.

Practical strategies shared:

  • Anchoring the day with routines such as mealtimes, homework, and bedtimes.
  • Creating small moments of connection, like shared meals or brief check-ins.
  • Keeping language calm and supportive, focusing on what is manageable.

Accessing support and resources

Parents shared experiences of using local and online support. Key advice included:

  • Accessing school or community services, food banks, and counselling.
  • Using charities and peer networks for financial guidance and emotional support.
  • Recognising that asking for help is a sign of strength, not failure.

Starting conversations with children

We explored strategies for talking about money and financial changes without causing anxiety:

  • Keep discussions simple and age-appropriate.
  • Focus on what can be done rather than limitations.
  • Encourage children to share their feelings and validate them.

Signs children may be struggling

Indicators include:

  • Increased anxiety or irritability
  • Withdrawal from normal activities
  • Changes in sleep, appetite, or behaviour
  • Worries about money or the future

Seek additional support if persistent emotional changes affect school, friendships, or mental health.

Key Takeaways for Parents and Carers

  • Maintain routines to give children stability
  • Talk openly and calmly about changes
  • Model healthy coping strategies
  • Access support early — for yourself and your child
  • Focus on reassurance and connection, not perfection

“Children feel safe when they see adults coping calmly – it’s not about the money, it’s about the care.”

Helpful Support Links

Financial Support:

Emotional Wellbeing & Parenting Support:

Other Useful Support:

Next coffee morning

Topic: Raising respectful, inclusive young people
Date: Friday 27th February 2026

We look forward to continuing these supportive conversations and exploring strategies to nurture socially aware, kind, and inclusive children.

Thank you for reading

Written by Natalie Hollins,

Parent Support Associate

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