Giving gifts without overwhelming your little one.
There is something truly magical about Christmas. It’s a time of love, laughter, good food, and a chance to reflect on the past year’s blessings with gratitude. Christmas is also the season of giving, and any parent can attest to the added joy and magic of having little ones at this time of year. The anticipation of Santa arriving and the enchanting nature of the season take on new meaning.
It can be so hard not to shower our kiddos with gifts, especially when commercials appear to be popping up with increased intensity and their Christmas wish lists grow longer and longer.
But an overabundance of gifts can be overwhelming for children resulting in anxiety, stress, and unwanted behavior as they try to communicate that they aren’t coping.
So how can we maintain the magic of Christmas for our little ones without overwhelming them?
What happens when things are too overwhelming for our little ones .
The lead-up to Christmas can be a difficult time for children to navigate. Routines are relaxed, and predictability decreases, which can leave some kiddos unsettled and more vulnerable to experiencing overwhelm. Add to this an unrelenting stream of advertisements convincing them to add another toy to the list, and the anticipation and build-up can simply be too much.
While we naturally want to make our little ones happy on Christmas morning, too many gifts can actually have the opposite effect and result in unwanted emotional consequences such as:
Reduced attention span and creativity – Research has shown that children may be overstimulated when they have too many toys. Kids need to spend time with a toy to engage in imaginative play, and when they are overwhelmed with too many choices, they may skip from toy to toy and experience a drop in attention span.
Decreased appreciation of belongings – When children have too many toys, they may place less value on them and not care for them appropriately.
Lowered self-esteem – A constant stream of presents may impact a child’s views on their self-worth and value. They may begin to attach their identity and self-esteem to how many gifts they receive.
Misinterpretation of the meaning of the season – Children may associate the festive season with gifts and miss the importance and significance of family traditions and beliefs.
What you can do about it .
We know it’s hard… limiting toys? At Christmas? We love seeing our little one’s faces light up with pure joy as they tear away the wrapping paper and discover a gift they have been longing for. It’s ok; you can relax… this isn’t about becoming the Grinch and stealing the magic of Christmas.
In fact, by simplifying gift-giving and implementing some clever strategies, you may find this the most meaningful and joyful Christmas yet.
Set gift limits and keep it simple
It can be helpful to set realistic expectations with kids around gifts. For example, encourage your little ones to think carefully about what they put on their Christmas wish list instead of adding endless items from catalogs and commercials that may not even be meaningful to them. In addition, some families find it helpful to stick to the Four Gift Rule.
Something they want
Something they need
Something to wear
Something to read
Also, consider discussing gift expectations with extended family to avoid your kiddo being overwhelmed on Christmas day.
Teach the joy of giving
Research suggests that we receive far more happiness and joy when purchasing gifts for others than when we receive them. Encouraging your child to give can develop generosity, interconnectedness, positive self-esteem, and a sense of joy!
Even if it is just a handmade drawing, a painted rock, or a craft project, your child will benefit from the giving experience, and it will enrich the meaning of Christmas for them immensely.
Focus on gifts that build self-esteem or create memories
Children love to explore new skills and talents. Think about gifts that might encourage a new passion and creativity, such as musical instruments or art supplies.
Another great alternative to toys or technology is the gift of an experience. A zoo membership, tickets to a show, or a trip away can result in lifelong memories that are far more valuable than the latest toy.
Maintain routines and prioritize sleep
It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be exhausting. Your kiddos will have an easier time navigating the season if they are well-rested. The festive schedule can lead to unexpected late nights, and throw in too many Christmas sweets, and you have a recipe for a meltdown. As hard as it may be, sticking to a consistent bedtime routine will benefit your little ones and the whole family.
If you want more information on establishing and maintaining solid sleep foundations for your kiddo, check out our virtual classes and ebook sleep guides, or explore our one-on-one personalized coaching program.
Contact My Sweet Sleeper today and discover how we can help you and your little ones to sleep more sweetly.
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