What you can do

Over the next five pages, you'll find insights from over 1800 parents and carers across Scotland into how best to talk to families about costs and money at school. 

Conversations about money can feel difficult, but not having them means that families can miss out on financial help or feel unable to talk to anyone if they are struggling with school costs.

Financial worries cause stress for parents and carers. They can also affect how children and young people feel about school, making them feel unhappy and unable to fully take part.

There are things we can all do to change this situation. On these pages, you'll find top tips from parents and carers, reflective questions, practice examples and links to other helpful Cost of the School Day resources. 

Talking about costs and money at school animation

Talking about money can be difficult.

If you've just gone without something so your kids don't it might be the last thing you want to think about. But if everyone knew the difference that talking about costs and money makes, it would change lives.

Every penny and pound matters to some families. We could all start by being more aware of real life problems and let families know that everyone needs help at times.

When letters and email acknowledge how many families are struggling, it can be reassuring. Don't assume families are ok financially, instead, show everyone that you're aware of hidden poverty and explain the support that's out there so nobody gets missed.

We really notice when schools do things to take the pressure off. When staff are approachable and understanding it makes us feel relaxed and able to talk, and when families feel good, children feel like they fit in and are ready to learn.

And that's what it's all about - we just want our kids to be happy at school, and when all of this happens, we feel we are not alone.