Kids tend to go overboard when it comes to what they want for the holidays. Whether it’s sitting on Santa’s lap and telling him directly, or writing a letter or a wish list, it can feel like there’s no end to the things they’re asking for, and if they don’t get it all under the tree? Their disappointment can be enough to make you feel like a grinch.
But even if parents have an endless budget, that doesn’t mean they plan to check off every item on their child’s list, which can add to their holiday stress. So, how can moms and dads help kids manage their gift expectations? Child development experts have some advice.
- Help your kid know what to expect - Talk to them honestly about what they can realistically expect to unwrap.
- Establish financial gift boundaries - Give them a range so they know what your budget is.
- Emphasize gratitude - The holidays are a perfect time to teach kids that even when they are disappointed with a present, or a holiday event, it’s still important to be a gracious recipient. Plenty of adults are still figuring out how to do this, so cut kids some slack.
- Teach them how to deal with disappointment - Let them know it’s okay to feel let down, but help them learn to cope with that feeling. Share your own experiences with disappointment and how you got over it.
- Highlight the reward of giving - According to experts, nothing lifts a kid’s disappointment faster than giving a thoughtful gift to someone else.
- Focus on the magic of the season - Everyone could use a reminder that presents aren’t as important as spending time with people you love during the holidays.
Source: NY Post