877-632-9123Boys Town Offers Tips to Reduce Financial Stress and Strengthen Family Connections During the Holidays
As financial strain reaches all-time highs for many families, Boys Town experts offer guidance on managing stress and creating meaningful holiday experiences.
Boys Town, Neb. (December 11 , 2025): — While the holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy and celebration, it can also bring significant financial stress for families. Rising costs of gifts, travel, festive meals, and holiday activities contribute to a growing sense of pressure that affects both parents and children. According to the American Psychiatric Association, 41 percent of Americans say they feel more stressed this holiday season than last year, with affording gifts and missing loved ones ranking among the biggest stressors.
Boys Town experts caution that these financial worries can have a direct impact on mental health and family dynamics. “For many families, financial stress doesn’t just affect the budget—it affects communication, mood, and overall emotional well-being,” said Julie Almquist, Manager of Boys Town Behavioral Health. “Kids are incredibly perceptive. Even if adults think they’re shielding them from financial worries, children often pick up on tension or changes in routine.”
How Financial Stress Impacts Children
Boys Town experts say that when parents are overwhelmed by financial pressure, children may notice changes such as irritability, conflict between caregivers, or fewer family activities. Some may feel guilty for wanting holiday gifts or experiences, while others might misinterpret reduced spending as a lack of care or attention.
“When finances are tight, parents often fear letting their kids down,” said Dr. Almquist. “But children value connection far more than material items. Honest conversations and thoughtful alternatives can go a long way.”
Tips for Talking with Kids About Holiday Expectations
Boys Town encourages parents to set realistic expectations early, using age-appropriate communication to help kids understand the family’s holiday plans. This may include:
- Discussing budgets openly and simply. Kids don’t need every detail, but they benefit from clarity.
- Reframing the season around togetherness, not price tags. Emphasize experiences: baking cookies, watching movies, or volunteering.
- Setting boundaries. It’s okay for families to decline certain events or gift exchanges if they create financial strain.
- Highlighting gratitude. Encourage kids to express appreciation for meaningful moments, not material gifts.
To help families manage financial stress and protect emotional well-being, Boys Town experts recommend these 5 tips for the holidays:
1. Set a realistic budget before shopping or planning events.
2. Track spending to avoid unexpected end-of-month surprises.
3. Choose low-cost or no-cost experiences like family game nights, service projects, or community holiday lights.
4. Limit comparison to what others are buying, posting, or expecting—every family’s situation is different.
5. Reflect on core values, reminding the family what matters most during the holidays.
Support Is Always Available
If families feel overwhelmed by financial stress or if a child is showing signs of anxiety or emotional distress, the Boys Town National Hotline (800-448-3000) is available 24/7. Trained counselors provide confidential support, resources, and practical strategies for navigating difficult emotions during the holiday season.
“At a time when families may feel isolated or ashamed about financial pressures, we want them to know help is always here,” said Dr. Almquist. “A simple call can provide direction, encouragement, and hope.”
Boys Town behavioral health experts are available for interviews to discuss holiday stress management, offer mental health tips, and provide additional insights for families navigating the season. For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Jordan Weinandt at Jordan.Weinandt@boystown.org or 402-720-8865.
About Boys Town
For over a century, Boys Town has been a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of America's children and families through innovative youth, research, and healthcare programs. Boys Town provides compassionate, research-proven education, prevention, training, and treatment for behavioral and physical problems in multiple locations throughout the United States, with a comprehensive array of resources and services. In 2024, more than 3.5 million children and families across the United States were impacted by Boys Town programs. You can find more information about Boys Town online at www.boystown.org.
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