I so long for the days when my daughter was a toddler and elementary school student. Her Christmas gift wish may have been long but it was manageable. I always was able to supplement the big gift with lots of toys and craft projects that were on sale. Not anymore.
My daughter is now 11 years old. Toys, board games, craft projects, “that’s stuff” an 11 year old has no interest in at Christmas time. Tweens want electronics, iPads, video game consoles and video games. Talk about taking a hit to your wallet.
So what’s a single mom to do? Do what my parents did! Fill in the one big gift with all those boring gifts like pajamas, gloves, scarves and socks. Hilarious, right. That’s what my siblings and I got for Christmas. Trust me, she will get over receiving all those boring gifts when she sees the big gift.
What do you give your child to round out the big gift at Christmas? Suggestions are greatly appreciated.
OMG, I remember all those gifts when I was growing. Socks who wants socks!! Good luck
I totally agree. We have decided to forego all the frivolous buys and-focus on what makes the most sense.! Great article
I really miss those days, too, with my sons! Now their wish lists are also filled with expensive tech items. I also find that it’s super hard to find things that they really need, too. I do like your idea of gifting the “boring” practical stuff, though, they always need it and I find that often they love some of the most unexpected things like t-shirts and gloves. ((Hugs)) to our kids out-growing that simple stage!
t-shirts and gloves are great ideas!
I limit how much they can ask for. No more than 5 items from Santa and they can circle other things they want in a catalog so I can share it with family members. I have 3 kiddos so as they get older the list may get even shorter. 🙂
I also miss when my daughter was young and I bought fun toys. Now she is older but she likes lotions and facial products so they are fun to buy too.