Children love presents, and Christmas is the time of the year when their expectations reach their point. But some families opt out of compulsory consumerism in favour of a more conscious lifestyle. Besides, the cost of living crisisaffects people’s ability to celebrate holidays as usual.
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But is it even possible to skip the gift-giving in the household with the little ones and the teenagers? According to the experts, it’s not only possible but is also recommended.
Why a no-gifts holiday is great for your family
For many caregivers, the time leading up to the holiday gift-giving season is often fraught with money concerns along with worries about spoiling the kids and the impact 'the most wonderful time of the year' will have on the environment. And that is without mentioning that your house is probably already full of toys and other objects once desired but forgotten about afterwards.
No-gift holidays can be the perfect antidote.
According to paediatrician Steph Lee, M.D., MPH, FAAP, you don't have to worry about your kids feeling bad without beautifully wrapped 'stuff'.
She explains:
Kids may not remember the toys they receive, but no matter their age, they will remember the way they felt during the holidays. If you don't have the budget for crazy expensive gifts, don't worry; be a good parent by creating long-lasting, happy memories.
Prepare your kids ahead of time
Keri Turner, PsyD, of the Centre of Modern Therapy, says that it’s important to help your children to understand your reasons. This may be difficult if they are already accustomed to receiving many gifts, so be sure to validate how this change may be difficult, and be sure to make the day important and special in different ways.
Do an activity as a family
On the day of the holiday, you can bake, go hiking or on walks, play party or board games, decorate cookies and gingerbread houses, put together puzzles—whatever! Just do it together and on purpose.
Play by their rules
Does your child love Minecraft or Roblox? Or love a show or particular hobby? Be a ‘student’ of your child and let them teach you how to engage in what matters to them.
Quality time is more essential than ever before. No-gifts Christmas can be a perfect opportunity to spend it by learning more about your kids.
Volunteer together
The holiday season also traditionally marks the time when families try to give back to their communities. Discuss with your children the causes and issues that are close to their hearts and find ways you can volunteer together as a family.
Perhaps your family will like it so much that you can incorporate volunteerism into your lives on a more regular basis than just during the holidays.
Holiday movie marathon
There are so many amazing and timeless holiday movie classics; go on a movie marathon binge with the whole family. Or maybe you're not a fan of traditional Hollywood holiday movies; start your own themed movie marathon instead.
Craft homemade presents
If a holiday season without presents sounds too sad, consider exchanging homemade gifts instead. Your kids can bake cookies, make salt dough ornaments, or draw a picture for each other.
Focus on experiences
Even though the experts keep saying it, we seem to keep forgetting: things come and go, but experiences stay in our memories. Go to a free holiday show together, go camping in the snow, or maybe choose that holiday time off to take a budget-friendly trip.
Dedicate a day to each child
One way to celebrate a child and make them feel special is to dedicate a day to them. Schedule one as their Christmas present. On that day, you eat their favourite meals, play their favourite games, and visit their favourite places.
Sources used:
- Parents.com: 'How To Celebrate the Holidays Without Buying Your Kids a Bunch of Gifts'
