What about you?
Families cope best when everyone helps out.
The first part of getting costs under control is for families to talk
about the problem. Dylan and Adrienne's parents didn't want their
kids to worry so they tried to avoid talking about money.
However, that's exactly why Dylan and Adrienne are most upset!
Here are some ways you can help your family save money:
Need it or want it?
Go green to save money.
Go Green to SaveThe slogan “Reduce, reuse, and recycle” can also help you find ways to save money:
Walk instead of asking your parents for a ride.
Use fewer paper towels, and more reusable cleaning items like sponges.
Put leftover food in washable containers instead of plastic wrap or bags.
Check the faucets for drips and tell your parents so the faucets can be fixed.
Shop garage sales for toys you want. They're just as much fun!
CloseWhat's the toughest part of cutting spending?
It's when you're shopping for things you want,
of course.
Ask yourself, Do I really need this or do I
just want it?
If you're honest, you don't really need many of the things you want.
Or, you can find something else that's a lot cheaper.
To help out your family,
you can put the brakes on asking for things.
Do You Really Need It?
Have you ever bought something, like a new video game, and then regretted it? Did you find it wasn't that special or you got tired of it quickly?
Being more careful about your choices may make you a happier shopper in the long run.Close 
Help save electricity.
How You Can Save Electricity Turn off lights.
Use desk or table lamps instead of ceiling lights.
Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps.
A shower uses less hot water than a bath, and a short shower uses the least.
Close curtains on sunny windows in the summer.
Open the curtains on sunny windows in the winter.
Unplug battery chargers and other electronic power hogs like a desktop computer or TV unless using.
Think about what you need before you open the door to the fridge.
CloseAsking for things you think you've got to have puts pressure on your mom or dad just when they need you to go along with less spending!
Save electricity
Your home costs several hundred dollars a month (or more) for energy costs alone.
You can save money in dozens of small ways, and it will add up to big dollars...
