One of the best ways to ensure that kids grow up to be good gift givers is to get them into the habit when they are young. Don’t just settle for sticking their name on the gift tag let them take part in the choosing of gifts for close family members and friends.
Starting with toddlers and preschoolers:
Help your little one make up a list of people that he is interested in giving gifts to. Next, take him to one of those stores where everything inside is only $1. You will be amazed at how well children know those that are close to them and can find something that is appropriate for each person on their list. Let them make the decisions and know that most, if not all of the recipients, will be thrilled with the special gift they receive.
Don’t make this another stop while you are doing your own shopping or going to the mall to see Santa. Choosing a time to do their own special shopping will make it an important event.
Elementary school shoppers:
When children are a little older and in elementary school, then you can also let them do their own shopping with a budget. Expect to pay a little more for gifts but tell them how much they can spend on each person on their list. This is not only a great way for them to learn how to choose appropriate gifts but it will also help them learn to budget money.
During the holidays, look for retail stores that will set up areas for children to shop in with the assistance of an “elf” or other “Santa’s helper”. They usually have a variety of items that are available for anywhere from $1 to $5 or $10 than you can let children go into and pick out gifts for you or anyone else in the family. Some schools have a “Santa’s Shop” as well. These are great tools that allow your child to have some independence in choosing a gift without your knowing what he picked!
Teens and older kids:
Your child may work to earn money or get an allowance, but don’t depend on them to have the money to do all the Christmas shopping they want to do. Consider giving your child a specific amount of money to spend on Christmas gifts with the understanding that this is for gift purchases only. You know your teen and how dependable he/she may be. If you are concerned with “letting them loose” to do the shopping, get a trusted friend or relative to do the honors. This is a great way to give them the freedom to choose gifts without any input from you.
The majority of children enjoy shopping for Christmas gifts and if yours is the exception to the rule, then encourage him/her to do it anyway. Most adults who aren’t very good at gift giving never had a lot of practice when they were children!
Author Resource:
Denise Sanger is the owner of http://www.newcooltoysonline.com which features a fantastic selection of outdoor toys including ride-on toys and battery ride on toys. The company is located in Sunny Florida and may be reached at 877-950-7665
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