It can be tricky to manage kid’s expectations around the holiday season but with a little thought and some family discussion before the big day, the holiday season can be more about what they have to give rather than what they want to get.   I’ve put together a list of tips that will help families and children focus on the real meaning of Christmas and will help manage some of their gift expectations.

Tip #1
Find a way for your family to give back to others.  Many families have found that they can easily curb their children’s gift expectations by involving them in the spirit of giving.  This could mean doing something as simple spending an afternoon baking Christmas cookies that can be boxed up and shared with some neighbors or gathering some non perishable items that can be dropped off at your local food bank together.  When children experience what it feels like to give to others and make others happy they will be less likely to focus on just themselves and the things they want.

Tip #2
Allow them to be involved in choosing or making gifts for others.  Instead of just having children make a list of things they want – have them make a list of people they would like to give a gift to.  For smaller children this could mean doing some artwork or making crafts for family members and friends.  If children are a little older, take them along shopping with you and allow them to choose a small gift for a sibling or relative.  If they have some of their own money or receive an allowance consider letting them use some of their own money to purchase gifts.

Tip #3
Focus on family traditions and time with family and friends.  Instead of focusing on presents, toys and gifts, discuss how your family would like to spend time together over the holidays.  Get involved in planning some family activities that everyone can participate in together.  Allow children to take part in the planning process, whether you’re decorating the house for the holidays or scheduling some time with friends and family.  

Tip #4
Limit the number of gifts children receive.  Emphasize early on that the Christmas season is not about how many presents will be under the tree but rather giving and receiving a few special and heartfelt gifts.  Teach them to be grateful for the gifts that they do receive and to always thank the people they receive gifts from.  Watching the classic story of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas offers a great opportunity to remember what the Grinch learned – “Maybe Christmas he thought doesn’t come from a store.  Maybe Christmas…perhaps…means a little bit more.”

Tip #5
Discuss realistic expectations for receiving gifts.  Inevitably kids will be bombarded at this time of year if not by advertising and commercials alone but also by the pressures of what their friends want and are asking for.  Be honest with them addressing the fact that it’s o.k. to want a few things but not to expect to get everything that may be on their wish list.  Showing appreciation for the things that they already have and being grateful for the gifts that they do receive are important lessons to be learned during the holiday season.