No toys for Christmas

Question

My husband and I don't want to give our kids toys this Christmas (except Santa), they have become entitled and we don't like it. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Answer 1

You do not say how old your children are, so it is difficult to make suggestions.

There always are books, and it will be good for them to read, besides the fact that you will get a bit of peace and quiet.

There also are educative games through which they learn facts about science  or geography, or fun ones like Cluedo that will encourage them think laterally. You could buy kits for them to do something artistic from a craft shop, which will keep them occupied for a long time.

If there is a particular item of clothing which they would like like special trainers, not because they need it but because it is fashionable amongst their friends, then it is a good moment to give it to them so that they understand it is a luxury, not something they are entitled to by right.

A CD is appreciated by older ones if they have a CD player and a favorite band.

I have given my grand- child a small patch of garden that is his where  to grows plants.

There is always the alternative of a small pet if you have the room, which teach children to look after  animals and think about their needs.  

Answer 2

It's hard for me to relate to what you're talking about.

YOU don't want to give them toys, but SANTA will be?  

Answer 3

Consider asking each of your kids to pick a toy or game he/she no longer cares about to donate to charity. Also consider volunteering your family to ring bells for the Salvation Army or help out at a neighborhood homeless shelter during the holidays (if the kids are old enough). I've read stories of kids who were forced to help their parents do volunteer work at homeless shelters during winter break -- and many of those kids were so moved by what they saw and heard there

that they willingly donated their own Christmas or Chanukah presents to the children at the shelter.

Answer 4

save some money for college or take them to disney world

or just have a really fun christmas

Answer 5

No toys for Christmas as they have come to expect them, did you mean? well aren't they suppose to expect toys at Christmas? isn't that half the fun of it?

Get them both a bike if you don't have room in the house for any more toys.  

Answer 6

what does that mean entitled? but whatever get them a ps3 xbox 360 or wii for christmas they would definitely love that : )

Answer 7

give them gift cards for restaurants or places like staples

Answer 8

Maybe get them CDs, I know Disney Channel music is very popular with girls around ages 7-11. For a buy a soundtrack to his favorite movie. Or buy them clothes they like. How about a small pet like a hamster for each of them? It not only teaches responsibility but is very enjoyable. Or get them sporting goods like rollerblades.

And then teach them a very valuble lesson that Christmas is not just about gifts.

Answer 9

Well depending on their age (like if they're below 8 i think that's a bit harsh) I would fake them out with coal but get them something anyways, or have restrictions on their toys for awhile. You could also force the other ones to go help out at some charity or start there own and raise money for  less fortunate families.

Answer 10

How about clothes?! Removable stickers for their bedroom walls, something for outside, like a trampoline?

Answer 11

Good question.. We are having the same feelings as you. One idea that we came up with was re-doing their bedrooms. we are going to redecorate the rooms with what they are into now. New Bedding, curtains, and whatever accessories  we can find that will go with the theme. This way they still get stuff they like and stuff that will get used instead of  all those expensive toys that are only played with for a few days then forgotten about. Best Wishes!

Answer 12

2 solutions here:

1.) Children need to learn to give. If at all possible what if you have them each pick a child their own age off of an Angel tree or through some other place. The children must pick a gift that they themselves would want (in a $ range you set) and donate it. Sometimes this is easier if you adopt a whole family. Then your kids can see how children who may not have much may be more grateful  for 1 or 2 things.

2.) Give the family a membership to somewhere like a museum, swim club or something like that.  You might also decide on 1 big something like the other poster said. Pool table, game room item, family weekend getaway.