Teaching Children that it’s Not all About the ‘Gimmies’ this Holiday Season

Instead of ‘Ho, Ho, Ho,’ parents should say ‘No, No, No,’ (sort of)

(December 13, 2006)—"I want video games. I want a new doll. I want a new bike ... Gimmie, gimmie, gimmie!" Sound familiar? It might to some parents, especially during the holiday season. Child experts say kids are likely to cultivate a strong taste for consumerism when parents aren't careful with gift-giving. Here are some tips and information for families during the holiday season.

Bah Humbug! — It's never too early to demonstrate generosity. Teach kids that giving is more important than getting. The holidays are a good time for families to go through toy chests and closets for items to donate to a church, family shelter, or other charitable community organization.

It's a wonderful life — It may sound corny, but the best gift parents can give their children is their time. Kids become lonely, depressed, and angry when parents give them material items instead of their attention. Read holiday stories together once a week or learn how other cultures celebrate the holidays.

It's beginning to feel a lot like ... a family —Doing simple things as a family—like telling stories, having dinner together, or singing along to holiday tunes—leaves a lasting impression. Kids need to see that spending time with their family is more rewarding than spending money at the mall.

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer — Lead by example. It's hard to talk credibly to children about wanting too much if parents are excessive in their shopping. Materialistic teens tend to be more self-centered and usually have more problems with anxiety, physical ailments, and drug and alcohol abuse.

You'll shoot your eye out! —The teen years are a ripe time to teach consumerism and responsibility. Help children sort out what advertisements are trying to do.

Visit www.pta.org for more resources and last minute teacher gift ideas.

About the Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
PTA comprises nearly 6 million parents and other concerned adults devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization that prides itself on being a powerful voice for children, a relevant resource for parents, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who is concerned with the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.