Christmas cheer and all the fear… wait fear? Yes, you heard correctly. Although it’s a happy time for some, it can be a very expensive time for families.
My fear as a Mum of two boys, is the fear of not wanting to spoil my children and that it’s nice to receive gifts, but it’s also nice to give and appreciate what you already have.
As a parent, how do you embrace the magic of Christmas and gift giving but still educate gratitude to a two-year-old? It’s a hard one to answer but I’m hoping this Christmas is a little easier by following these simple tips:
1. Follow the “Something they want, something they need, something to wear, something to read’’ rule when picking gifts.
2. Stick to a budget. Department stores have come a long way it terms of toys, clothing, arts/crafts and sporting items at affordable prices starting from just $1.
3. Buy an experience, rather than an item. The memories will last a lifetime. This could include an annual pass which can be used multiple times throughout the year. Like a gift that keeps giving.
4. Take your kids shopping to buy presents for the other family members and let them pick. Involvement will get them excited about giving on the day.
5. Clean out the old to make room for the new. Donating old items to those less fortunate will teach compassion and awareness of their situation.
6. Instead of going to a fancy restaurant or spending hundreds on a lunch, grab the family, pack a picnic and head to the beach or a park. Fun times for the kids, relaxing for the parents and a little less hectic all round.
From my family to yours, we wish you a very merry (stress free) Christmas and a happy new year. I look forward to writing more great local stories for you all in 2019.A major attraction for Gregory Hills has always been the convenience and proximity to essential services that residents will inherit once the project is finished. The delivery of the town centre in early 2019 will see the Gregory Hills vision further come to fruition.
^ The Garcia family | Article + Image: Renee Garcia.