How the Cost of Living Is Affecting Our Kids' Play
The pinch of the current cost-of-living crisis is real! With everything getting more expensive—groceries, rent, even petrol—I’ve been noticing how much it’s impacting the way our kids play. And I don’t just mean fewer toys or activities; it’s like the rising cost of living is quietly reshaping their childhoods.
Let’s be real: life feels like a juggling act right now, and play—something so essential for our kids—sometimes feels like it’s slipping through the cracks. I wanted to share some thoughts (and maybe hear yours) about how this is all playing out.
Less Money for Toys and Activities
Do you remember how we used to run around with toys that we made ourselves or the random bits we’d find in the garden? These days, even the simplest toys seem so expensive. A set of blocks or a board game can cost a small fortune! And let’s not even get started on extracurriculars—sports, swimming lessons, or dance classes.
I’ve found myself saying “no” more often than I’d like, just because the costs add up so quickly. It’s hard, isn’t it? You want your kids to have these experiences, but when you're deciding between ballet class and the grocery bill, the decision is pretty much made for you.
Time to Play? What’s That?
And then there’s time. With both parents working (or even just us mums trying to make it all work), it feels like there’s so little left over for just... play. By the time we’ve dealt with work, the school run, dinner, and bedtime routines, where’s the space for our kids to just be kids?
And it’s not just about us being busy; our kids are busier too. Between school, homework, and structured activities, there’s not much time left for good old-fashioned free play—the kind where they make up silly games or build pillow forts.
Losing Out on Social Play
Let’s talk about how moving affects them. I know a few of us have had to relocate because housing prices have gone up, and when that happens, our kids lose their friends, their playmates, and sometimes their sense of belonging. It’s heartbreaking watching them start over, trying to make new friends in a new neighborhood.
And even when we stay put, it feels like public spaces for play are shrinking. Parks can be overcrowded or underfunded, and not every neighborhood has safe spots for kids to run around freely.
More Screen Time, Less Outside Time
Let’s face it: when you’re stretched thin—financially and emotionally—handing over the tablet feels like the easiest option. I’m guilty of it too. Screens are entertaining, and sometimes they’re the only way we can grab a few minutes to breathe.
But I can’t help but worry about the long-term impact. Are they missing out on climbing trees, riding bikes, and playing with friends in real life? There’s something about that hands-on, physical play that screens just can’t replace.
Our Stress Becomes Their Stress
I’ve been thinking about how all this financial stress might be affecting them emotionally too. Kids are so intuitive—they pick up on the little things. If we’re feeling overwhelmed about money, they sense it.
Sometimes I catch my older one saying things like, “Mum, we don’t have to buy that. It’s okay.” And while it’s sweet that they’re trying to help, it breaks my heart. Kids shouldn’t have to carry the weight of adult worries. They should be carefree, playing and laughing without a thought about bills.
So, What Can We Do?
Okay, so here’s where I try to turn this around because I know we’re all doing our best. I think we need to get creative and lean on each other more.
Toy swaps: What if we did a toy swap in the group? The kids get something “new,” and we don’t have to spend a cent.
Free playdates: Let’s take turns hosting playdates or heading to the park as a group. Sometimes it’s not about fancy outings—it’s about being together.
Community resources: Have you checked out what’s free in our area? Libraries, community centers, even nature walks can be amazing.
And maybe, just maybe, we give ourselves a break. If dinner’s not perfect or the house is a mess, but the kids are giggling while turning the couch cushions into a castle, that’s a win, right?
We’ve Got This
At the end of the day, our kids don’t need fancy toys or expensive activities. What they need is us—our love, our encouragement, and the space to play and explore.
It’s not always easy, especially when the world feels so expensive, but I truly believe that with a little creativity and a lot of support from each other, we can give our kids the childhood they deserve.
What about you, mums? How are you navigating all this? Let’s share ideas because, honestly, we’re all in this together. 💕