Hello ladies!
I have two questions. This year we have sincerely devoted ourselves to being a Christian family, and to raise our girls to appreciate such. So what are some ideas for teaching them the REAL meaning of Christmas this year? They are 7,3,1. I know they are young, but I feel starting early is good! also, in the past we would get them everything they ever wanted, we not only don't want to do that now, but we can't. How do we explain the importnace of a few great gifts and giving without ruining the Santa effect?
Thanks!
Thank you Mom's so much, I feel such a weight lifted after all of your suggestions!. We have decided to do 3 gifts, and we actually showed our 7 year old where in her bible it says Jesus received 3 gifts, and we are going to do some cupcakes and an advent calendar. We also signed up to volunteer for the Christmas Journey at Church!! I actually have my girls going through adds right now circling things that would be great to buy for other kids! I am so excited this year for all that we willbe doing!!
In our house we have decided not to do Santa at all. We "adopt" a child in need and purchase the clothes/school item they need. I make a sweater for a gift for my son and any other presents come from the aunts, uncles and grandparents.
Someone of here posted about how her family was only going to give each other homemade gifts (http://www.mamapedia.com/questions/3256713714233114625) . She had younger children too. Her ideas were very thoughtful and it sounded like fun. It sounded to me like it would help get some of their commercialization out of Christmas, which is a good thing no matter what your financial situation is, in my opinion.
As for Santa. I remember a few years back my son watched an Arthur video...Perfect Christmas, I think. Arthur's sister asked for the "it" toy. When she didn't get it, she was upset at first. Her parents then reminded her that Santa only brings what you really want, what you will really enjoy. So when my kids start getting extravagant with their requests, I remind them of this. They are allowed to "officially" ask Santa for three things online. We always talk about how they may or may not get what they ask for, that Santa will choose carefully and he has a lot to think about. We try to keep away from the "I want" talks this time of year. I avoid the toy aisle and often toss the ads before the kids see them. It's difficult because it's everyone, so obviously it comes up. But I think every little attempt can't hurt.
Our children wake up on Christmas morning to find gifts under the tree. They each receive 3 store-bought personal gifts. Not always what they ask for, but stuff they will & do enjoy. They will get a few "shared gifts" (dvd's, games, etc) and then their stocking stuffers. I do personally make a 4th gift for each of them, something speciafically for that individual child as well. Christmas is about love and not about gifts...and actually, the greatest gift we can give as well as receive is love.
First of all you're doing the right thing! Kids don't need half the junk we buy them, and it teaches them to be greedy and selfish.
I'd be real with them. Obviously the 1 year old won't understand, but they won't notice the difference anyway. Tell them that finances are tight this year and you want to get them one really NICE present. Have them give you a list of some things they want, and see what will fit into your budge the best, that way there is a surprise element.
I'd also have them practice being generous. Since they have tons of toys from the past, that they don't play with anymore probably, have them pick a few to keep, and a few for the younger siblings to enjoy later (if applicable), and the rest to donate to a charity. They can participate in wrapping them and taking them over. Have them pick out a small inexpensive gift for each other and you and their dad too.
Best wishes!
Rewrap stuff they may get early or if one has what the other has and ones getting some thing more advance or something different give the other the used toy. Also go see what salvation army or resale shops have there cheaper than the stores and brand new. Have them make things for each other secretly.
I am also a Christian and my oldest has made that committment of faith. The youngest hasn't yet. Still praying for that. I start now talking about Christmas and what it is all about. And they are not too young to learn this. We do Santa (my oldest knows the truth) for the youngest. But I really emphasize the real meaning. I found a book earlier this year that talks about Santa & the real meaning of Christmas. It explains how Santa was a priest (I think) and how he started the tradition of the gifts. I can't remember the name right now. When I get home today I will look at it and PM you the name. It's a great book. I also like the idea of the 3 gifts. We do tend to do a little more but that is because we don't buy during the year. I also like the idea of the birthday cake / cupcakes and will probably do that this year.
