Childhood is a time of innocence, adventure and joy. It’s a moment in a person’s life where they truly get to experience the joys of life before eventually growing up into adults.
But these few years have been tough on children around the world. Parents are struggling to give their little ones a normal childhood.
There is less opportunity to play outside, and they are unable to see their friends. Now, the children of Malaysia are hit with another blow to their childhood—inflation.
While children from well to do families may be thriving despite the price hikes, those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are sacrificing more and more of their childhood. Here’s how inflation is affecting your child’s mental health.
Inflation and Childhood Depression
Contrary to popular belief, children can experience depression just like any adult.
Of course, we don’t have to tell you why it’s bad for someone to experience mental health worries so early in life. Children should be raised in a safe, healthy, happy environment in order to grow up as well-adjusted adults.
Depression affects everything from a child’s mental development, to their physical wellbeing. It can cause stress, insomnia, irritability, weight gain, mood swings, difficulty concentration, delinquent behaviour, and lethargy.
If you have a toddler, he or she may not necessarily understand the concept of inflation, or currency, or money. Young children rarely do. But they still feel its effects.
While it’s important to discourage materialism, most children may require material things to be happy. And material things cost money. Everything costs money these days, in fact, even experiences.
Not having these privileges can cause them to have low self-esteem, an inferiority complex and even anxiety. Here are some inflation-related facts that may be affecting your children’s mental health.
Fewer Outings
We all remember family vacations, and shopping trips from our youth. The toy stores, candy shops, the fast-food chains. The seaside picnics and evenings at the public park.
There are still many ways to enjoy their childhood indoors and even outdoors without spending money.
However, thanks to the price hikes, this does mean that many families are forgoing expensive road trips to holiday destinations. And just spending those free times at home.
No More Toys
Toys offer emotional comfort, support and even companionship for a child. Playing with toys stimulate their brain cells and enhance creativity and imagination.
Inflation has forced parents to spend less on non-essentials; and unfortunately, toys fall into that category. Some children are even forced to play with sticks and stones. Which may not be enough to give them the stimulation they need in order to function.
They may even be depressed if they see other kids playing new and fun toys.
Less Recess Money
Inflation has caused many parents to cut back on their daily expenditure. And the same rules apply to their kids. Some parents make their kids lunch for school, while others give lunch money.
But recent months may see children bringing less recess money to school. And fewer chances to spend on snacks, stationery, and other things they may need.
This may cause your kids to feel a bit sad. Especially if they see other kids have more recess money. But you can still teach them to save money with what they get.
No New Clothes
Some parents choose to clothed their kids in recycled, second-hand or hand-me-down clothes. But this can be very bad for a child’s self-esteem.
While its unreasonable to buy them new clothes every day, or even every month, your child still needs to have something new that’s theirs. And not something that’s been previously worn by others.
When talking about school clothes, your kids may feel worse if their uniforms are a little worse for wear. And there’s not enough money to get them replaced.
Preserving Childhood Despite Inflation
As much as we’d like to make every child in the world to be happy, that is not the case. And not all families are wealthy enough to withstand the effects of inflation—at least not for long.
That is why it’s important for parents to always have a backup plan. Usually in the form a savings initiative. This way you can always ensure your child has everything they need and more.
Childhood shouldn’t have to be sacrificed just because prices are increasing. If anything, there are still ways to let your kids enjoy their youth that doesn’t cost money.
All you need to do is use your imagination.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!