Stock market gyrations. Inflation. Layoffs of federal workers. A possible recession. Children may overhear their parents talking about these things and not fully understand what’s going on or how it may affect their family’s finances.

1. HONEST but age-appropriate

talking through the concerns can help reduce fear and confusion, said Maureen Kelley, a certified financial therapist in Denver. “You want to keep it honest but age-appropriate.”

2. GUARD your own mind, monitor your own feelings

Avoid having money talks with children when you’re stressed, Ms. Maxcy said. If you’re busy and not ready to talk, say you’ll find time to chat when things are quieter. “Maybe don’t have the conversation if you just opened your 401(k) statement,” she quipped.

3. MAKE it tangible and obvious

not too sure about this one (full disclosure route).

the picture has been less dire for people with investments outside the U.S. stock market. Holding plenty of bonds and including stakes in international stock markets were keys to stability and, maybe, even modestly positive returns in the first three months of the year. While there is no guarantee that this approach will work as well in the future, it has held its own over many years and is, I think, a sound strategy for most people.