Pre-Christmas Suggestion box: Fun shouldn’t be stressful


While my kids were still young and expecting presents on any given excuse, and believe me it was rather tough at times- Even though their smile was worth every ‘near’ tear in the parent’s eyes 😁
So, I made a change to the concept of ‘gifts’ in the family. It would start with a democratic discussion about gifts and what in general everyone would like to have. While doing so, we could also influence the kids tactfully to make more realistic demands. In my household, this was followed by everyone posting 3 options of the stuff they absolutely ‘needed’ in the Christmas suggestion box/ or any other festival box, along with the reason why that particular gift was important for them. This exercise made the kids think about what they wanted- Anyone needs to know what they want and why in life. My husband and I would then choose one of the three suggested gifts, and frankly, whichever suited our pocket the most. It required a great deal of tact and very discreet steering towards a commonly acceptable goal😉😉. It didn’t work perfectly on the first attempt, but it began to get better with each occasion. I know it won’t work exactly the same with every kid, but the point is to find a friendlier and less stressful way for yourself. I would suggest that you treat yourself this Christmas with the gift of lesser stress. So, get the suggestion box set up as soon as possible. Find a friendly way to steer the expectations of your family to adjust in balance with the budget. Presents should be only ‘a’ part of the festival, not the only reason for celebration. Remember, children are more flexible and adaptable to change than we give them credit for. They don’t deserve to be deprived, or overindulged. It’s an individual choice, of how one would celebrate Christmas this year, but remember to enjoy your smile. Celebration is as much for you, as for anyone else.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. 🎉🎄🎀✨   

15 thoughts on “Pre-Christmas Suggestion box: Fun shouldn’t be stressful”

  2. That’s a good approach. At least it is possible to know what to buy kids. They tell you their wishes. So many adults say, “I don’t want anything”. It’s kind of hard to buy presents that way. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you as well.

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    1. You have to make some effort to create this box for your own needs. In your case, it seems it’s an easier task than pleasing kids with two legs. I have a cat, who is my princess and she is most pleased with the gift of my attention and love- rest is my indulgence in my expression of that love. Your choice. So, I think Charlee will be happy with something he can sit on/in, or chew on. 😂

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