How Do I Manage My Children’s Gift Expectations?

We are finally getting back on our feet after my husband lost his job a year ago. He is back working, but our budget for Christmas gifts will be tight this year. How do I manage my children’s gift expectations?

Christmas is exciting, but can be a tough time of year for many reasons, including financial struggles. In order to manage your children’s gift expectations, you may want to talk to them about the meaning of Christmas and the importance of being with family.

Give them some guidance on what to put on their wish list. This can be a great way to help children keep their expectations reasonable. You could ask them to pick something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read. Then, go through the list with them. If your children identify more expensive items like iPads, consider making a plan with them to save money so they can purchase it themselves.

This could be a great experience for you and your children, helping them learn to problem solve, have reasonable expectations, and appreciate taking care of their belongings.

– Megan, CTH Home Visitor

Do you have parenting questions for our staff? Send them to us at jmelnychuk@closertohome.com.