How to Survive Gift Giving Season
It is about that time of year for most of us that we start to think about buying Christmas gifts. However, if you are a single parent or a divorced parent, your income may be limited.
I returned to work after my divorce, but chose to work part time when my children were under five. That came with the realization that our income was limited when it came to gift buying.
I want to remind you that your children will remember the traditions and warmness you create in your home more than gifts. See last week’s post.
Do Not Make Comparisons
I could not never compete with the gifts my son’s dad bought them. You may not be able to compete with the gifts given by the other parent or the gifts you see other families giving their children.
However, this is the time to help your children understand that your love for them does not equate with the gifts you buy them. (If you do have extra income for gifts, this is still the time to be sure that your children understand this!)
Set Expectations Now
If your family income has changed, explain to your children gently and in an age appropriate manner what that means for your Christmas gift giving ahead of time. This is a great time to talk about needs and wants.
Do Not Give into the Pressure of Overspending
All you will create for yourself is pressure after the holidays. If you are stressed after the holiday season because of bills, that small moment of joy you may have experienced as you watched your child open a gift will have evaporated. See Dave Ramsey’s article here for saving money at Christmas.
The poor are always ruled over by the rich,
so don’t borrow and put yourself under their power.
Proverbs 22:7 MSG
Know Your Child’s Love Language
Have them take the quiz here. Base their gifts on their love language: coupons for acts of service or alone time together, kind words printed out and framed.
Stay Organized
Keep lists of the presents you have already purchased. When it is written down, you will remember everything you have stashed in the closet. No panicked last minute gift buying.
Give Needs
It is more than okay to give your children things that are a need. One year I gave my sons green alligator sheets I found on clearance. In their stockings, I put food items like clementine oranges.
Give Books
Must be the teacher in me. I think one of the best gifts are books. Check your public library’s website for when they have their used book sale. Most of the time you can purchase books for under a dollar. Our library runs specials such as fill a bag for five dollars.
If you did not plan a Christmas budget for this year, begin planning ahead for next year.
See How to Make a Christmas Budget here.
Do you have unique presents for a low budget Christmas? Share below!