There’s plenty of excitement in the air – the tree, the food, and of course, the lists to Santa! The festive season is such a magical time for kids, but sometimes they can get a bad case of the “gimme’s”.
For many of us the frenzy has begun! As parents it’s so easy to get wrapped up in ticking off our to-do list and making sure we get every gift on Santa’s list. Trendy toys and cool gadgets will make their way to the tree once again this year, and it’s definitely not a bad thing to receive (and to learn to receive), but receiving can’t be all we teach our kids.
Here’s the thing, studies show that 3 out of 4 kids can’t remember last year’s gifts without significant prompting, and only 50% can locate more than one such gift.
So mom and dad, Christmas allows us to make lasting memories through traditions, whether old or new. This time of the year gives us as parents he opportunity to teach our kids the importance of giving as well as receiving.
Show them that not all gifts need to be wrapped. Teaching our kids about giving is an excellent way to encourage empathy and show compassion for others. Small acts of kindness, like a simple plate of cookies, or a homemade holiday craft, can impact someone’s life significantly. Help them to think outside the gift box.
Involve them in helping others and thinking of others less fortunate during the festive season by helping out at a soup kitchen. If you’re looking for a meaningful lesson, this is it. This act of kindness is a great way to expose your kids to what it could feel like walking in a less fortunate person’s shoes. Encourage them to go through their toy box and to donate pre-loved toys to a local charity. Reinforce the message of giving by allowing them to choose a gift for a less fortunate child.
There is so much pressure during the festive season to buy loved ones the most ideal gifts when all we really need is time spent together in the true spirit of Christmas. So, take them to buy something small for everyone in the household. Suggest a pair of funny socks or a cute coffee mug, have them to wrap it themselves and get them excited about giving.
However, managing expectations over the holidays can be tricky at times. It’s important to talk about courtesy and reactions when receiving gifts. Make sure they understand that it’s okay to be disappointed if something isn’t exactly what you want, but you can still make a deliberate choice to be grateful anyway. It’s all about truly recognizing all the good things we do have. If someone gets you something really nice – fabulous! And if someone gets you something not-so-nice – it’s okay. You can still say thank you, recognising that they gave you a gift because they love you.
May you enjoy the magic and joy of friends and family this festive season!
Source: scarymommy.com, ziggityzoom.com, gominno.com, littlezaks.com.au, kiddipedia.com.au, livingforthesunshine.com, imperfecthomemaker.com, cleantheworld.org
