"BTW - renting out a bedroom is an excellent idea. Your kids will not suffer for it if you choose wisely. "
I disagree.
Why? We've hosted grad students who were in need of housing for a year, and next month an Indonesian friend is coming to stay while he works here. I don't see how that is different from renting a room to a nursing student or some such. Another interesting adult in the house can be fun for the kids.
I suspect your reluctance stems from your feelings of shame that such a step is necessary. But don't look at it that way; look at it as yet another opportunity to provide for your kids. A means to the end of preserving their home.
