When we think of the holidays as adults, we likely think of planning, getting the family together, holiday lights and decorations, and buying the littles gifts. Kids think of, well, just the last part of that sentence. The holiday season is an excellent opportunity to teach important values – such as generosity and gratitude – and managing expectations during this festive time of year!

Managing a kid’s expectations during the holidays can be tough but not impossible. Teaching kids that it’s better to give than to receive is a gift unto itself! Most of us have a goal of raising kind humans, and this is a part of that process.

Here are a few key strategies in managing gift expectations around the holidays:

• Set Realistic Expectations: Have open and honest conversations with your children about what to expect during the holidays. Explain that while gifts are a part of the celebration, they are not the only or the most important part.
• Focus on Non-Material Gifts: Encourage children to think beyond material gifts. Plan activities that emphasize these non-material aspects of the holiday season.
• Create a Wish List with Limits: If you create a wish list with your children, set reasonable limits. For example, ask them to choose a few items they really want rather than an extensive list. This teaches kids to prioritize their desires.
• Emphasize the Thought Behind the Gift: Teach children that the thought and effort put into a gift are what truly matter, not the price tag.

Generosity is a value that can be – and should be! – nurtured from a young age. Teaching children the joy of giving can help shift their focus from what they receive to what they can share with others.

• Lead by Example: Children learn by observing the actions of adults. Demonstrate generosity in your own actions, whether it’s through charitable donations, helping a neighbor, or simply showing kindness in everyday interactions.
• Involve Children in Giving: Include children in acts of giving. This could be choosing toys to donate, helping prepare food for a community meal, or creating handmade gifts for family members. Involving them in the process helps them understand the impact of their generosity.
• Discuss the Impact of Giving: Talk to your children about how their acts of generosity make a difference in the lives of others. Share stories of how giving has helped those in need and the positive feelings that come from being generous.
• Cultivating Gratitude: Encourage children to express gratitude daily. This can be through simple practices, such as discussing what they are thankful for at the dinner table or keeping a gratitude journal where they write down things they appreciate.

Managing expectations around gifts, fostering generosity, and cultivating gratitude are key to creating a balanced and meaningful holiday experience for children. By setting realistic expectations and emphasizing the joy of giving, we can help children develop positive values that will last a lifetime.

Sources

Fever Mates; “10 TIPS FOR MANAGING YOUR CHILD’S GIFT EXPECTATIONS” – NatWest; “How to manage your children’s expectations” – Organic Spa Magazine; “Managing Expectations: The Psychology of Gift-Giving”