Kids Try to Fix Recession in Their Own Way

Eleven-year-old Stefan Auclaire has become my "go-to" man for all economic questions.

I asked him last year if money equaled happiness."You don't know that? Yea!" he replied.

I first met Stefan last year at the school down the street from where I live in Catskill, N.Y. I'd set up a little booth at the school and asked little kids about a big word: recession.

I paid the students $1 for every good idea to fix the recession. The goal was to try and get a fresh perspective on issues like job creation, or how to cut the national debt. Unfortunately, after two days, the only one stimulating the economy was me.

Web Extra: Hartman and Couric Go Behind the Story

One thing I did learn however, was that the kids were trying to fix the recession in the own little ways - in their own little worlds.

Stefan and his older brother Keith live on the edge of town. When I first met them one year ago, their dad was out of work as a carpenter and their family was flat-out broke.

Stefan took matters into his own hands. He went and got his own money -- and gave it to his parents.

When he offered the money to his parents, they didn't accept it at first. "But I just laid it on the counter, and then they put it in their pile," he said.

"He gave it all, just to buy stuff for the house," said Wanda, Stefan's mom. "I got good kids, but it just hurts."

Since we first told that story, things have improved - thanks in large part to our viewers.

About a dozen people sent letters. Almost every letter came with $40 enclosed. There was almost $400 total. Again, Stefan gave it all to his parents.

"That's the way he is," Wanda said. "I don't think he'll ever change."

Stefan's dad, Keith Sr., used part of the money for gas to go on interviews. Now, he has a job working maintenance. It pays only $10 an hour, but he says it sure as heck beats borrowing from your kids.

[cktirumalai]

Some kids feel vexed that the recession means that they can't have the things they looked forward to. Others, like Stefan, feel for their parents and do all they can to be helpful. The American future will be the better for the spirit they express.
Candadai Tirumalai

[mommom_to_4]

My kids are equally as great as the 11 year old in the story. I have my 4th (unexpected, but) on the way and we haveincurrd a lot of extra expenses with this one. My older two understand we are short on $$ a lot of times. They have given their father and I everything they have, which totals over $700. My youngest is too young (2 1/2) to understand...

My big kids are great and when they know I need to buy milk, or they need lunch money for school, if I don't have it, they always offer to help out.

I think most kids are like this. My kids know in time that I will pay them back, and then some. I have had to ask them sometimes if I could borrow their money and they always say yes. They know it is for the better of our family and will help in any way possible they can. I am also very proud of my children.

[baronessddb]

I have equally wonderful children. WE moved to AZ from the east coast and in the 8 months we have been here I have not found work. My fiance left us within 2 weeks of moving here as he met someone else. Frantically searching for work, yet unsuccessfully. My 4 daughters have huddled together to help as much as they can. They did not ask for Christmas gifts, they did not ask for birthday gifts, when money was sent to them from a friend, they all gave to the electric bill and the rent. I recently found work but its definitely not enough to pay the bills. No debt just basics. The job is minimum wage and not enough for a family of 5. Unfortunately, with all the help they have given me, we will be evicted from our apartment and into a shelter by This Friday the 21st. In AZ they can keep all your belongings and sell them. My girls have said that it was ok, they understand. My 19 yr old has put all her prized video games and books on craigslist, my oldest is offering to cook for people for extra money, and my 16 and 13 yr olds are going around our apartments asking if anyone needs help so they can give the money to the family fund. I am 2 months behind on every bill I have, rent, utilites, car, insurance. all will be gone shortly. Through it all, they have been understanding and strong. I love my kids!!! If you care to donate, please do. Keep them from being homeless one week before school is out. [e-mail]

[jesuschrysler1]

that is the most flyest thing these young kids did!

[proapckage]

It is very difficult for parents to determine how well they have done as parents. The parents of Stefan have nothing to worry about. They have instilled values in their child that most Parents will never become close to achieving