Gifts and Children's Boundaries

Navigating holiday shopping with children in tow can be a challenge, but it's also a wonderful opportunity to teach them about the spirit of giving. Involve your kids in the gift-giving process by letting them help you select thoughtful presents for family and friends. This is not only a chance to be a positive role model but also a moment to validate their own gift preferences and ideas.

In addition to shopping, make sure to set aside regular time for holiday crafts and games, creating a balanced experience that emphasizes the joy of the season. By blending shopping with fun activities, you can foster meaningful connections while instilling important lessons about generosity and creativity in your children. Embrace this season together by setting boundaries that allow for both the excitement of holiday shopping and the warmth of family traditions.

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Be a Positive Role Model

Be a positive role model by teaching your children that the holiday season is a time for giving and how to be realistic. Remember trying to meet all of your child’s wishes can cause stress to you and your bank account.

• Let them know if a toy is unsafe or too expensive
• Let them know that you and Santa will do their best to get them a special gift
• Enjoy time with your children. Have them choose a craft or activity at least once a week. Bake cookies, write a story, or make up a game, even as a gift. Have them make their own game or choose and activity as well. Your children will remember these moments much more than anything you will ever buy!
  

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Set Boundaries with your Child

When you take your child to any store during the holidays, let them know what your intent is. Let them know what you are shopping for. If gifts for others, try to have them help by asking for their ideas. Let them know that it is okay if they see something they like, but this is not the time for us to buy it.

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Validate your Child's Feelings

Plan ahead, be aware and ready to respond, because you know you will hear “I want…”. So, as you shop, when you hear “I want”, remember to first validate their feelings. Even if you are shopping for others, still validate them by letting them know you are happy they showed you what they would like. Acknowledge them by asking them to remember that item and write it on a list when they get home. Then, if they keep asking then simply remind them again that you are shopping for others and let them help you.

By simply setting boundaries and validating your child will help give you and your child a much happier holiday.

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