Resource 1: A family conflict

 Teacher resource for planning or adapting to use with pupils

In the Kwaku family, the husband provided money for the family’s needs each week. One day, Dad had to explain to Mum that he did not have enough money to meet Mum’s needs. She did not want to listen. She stormed out of the room and slammed the door behind her.

The next morning, the atmosphere at home was tense, as Mum would not listen to Dad’s explanations. Dad kept trying to explain to Mum why he did not have enough money, but she wouldn’t listen.

After some time, Dad urged the children to talk to their Mum. This they did, asking Mum to be patient. She listened to them and agreed.

Mum listened carefully and came to understand why this week Dad had not had enough money – he had needed to lend some to his brother to pay for his children’s school fees.

When she heard this, she understood the problem. But in return, she asked that the family’s food money be put to one side before anything be lent to others, and topped up a little to meet the rising cost of foodstuffs. Dad agreed.

The tense atmosphere at home became relaxed and everyone left home for the day’s activities feeling happy. Mum gave Dad a hug and kiss. Dad returned with a smile. Normal relations returned to the family.