Christmas - The Ultimate Gifts For Your Kids

Christmas + Children = Consumer Consumption

I have written about this topic before but with Christmas just around the corner, I think we need reminding.

Our kids don't need their bedroom or playroom to look like a toy store, I know that. But it is hard to fight the concept the marketers sell us - happiness and spending are linked. That material goods equal a more enjoyable life. When I go shopping and spend money I get a buzz; a retail fix. That's why it's called retail 'therapy'. But it's only temporary. The fix goes away again pretty quickly. Sound familiar?

In the bigger scheme of things, what are we teaching our children about consumerism and its effect on the environment? That it's ok to buy lots of new things, as long as we recycle the old stuff?

Happiness does NOT lie in excess. Christmas is about enjoying time together. Make a budget and stick to it. Don't be sucked in by advertisers that you are not providing enough for your children if they don't have the latest Nintendo DS, video games, talking robots or dancing dolls. It doesn't make you an inadequate parent.

In fact, psychologists believe a child can end up feeling that a constant stream of presents is the most reliable way of showing love or feeling valued. If this happens they will lose the ability to draw a distinction between affection, money and gifts.

I would like to emphasise the point that I am not saying to have a gift-free house this year. Just take a step back and remember to teach your children that Christmas is about coming together as a family.

Give the ultimate gifts this year. You. Your time, affection and attention.


© 2009 90 Degree Coaching Ltd.

Kirstie Gillon-Wood is Director of 90 Degree Coaching Ltd., a company devoted to supporting women wanting to create independence, and achieve personal and professional success. You can learn more about Kirstie’s products and services at http://www.90degreecoaching.co.nz.