Though the U.S. economy is bouncing back, some companies are still tightening their bottom lines—which can mean staff cuts. if it happens to you or your partner (unfortunately), be prepared to bolster yourself and your family with these coping strategies.

Put it into kid perspective. We all know the cliché “It’s not personal, it’s business.” But that doesn’t make
a layoff easier for your family. Help your kids understand the basic causes, such as company restructuring or downsizing. Explain that it wasn’t because you did something wrong or weren’t liked at your job. Stick to the facts—and skip unnecessary details—to increase
 their understanding and acceptance.

Be a buffer. Being unemployed can be frustrating and overwhelming, but be sure to bemoan your job­loss status
to close friends and your partner only. Try not to show your stress to your kids, who may have a hard time coping and could wind up feeling helpless. Children pick up their emotional cues from the adults around them, and yours need you, as the family’s CEO, to stay strong during this troubling time.

Build new beginnings. Take charge and strategically plan your next career move. Update your linkedin status and start sending out feelers to peers and former colleagues for job leads. Try to stay positive about this next phase (many companies are hiring), and share your excitement with your kids. If your family sees you energetically moving forward, they’ll feel inspired about the future—and so will you. Remember, you’ve got the skills to make it happen.

Source: Patti Johnson, CEE of PeopleResults, a change and human resources consultancy