Giving and receiving gifts is a big part of the winter holidays, and probably always will be. It’s a deeply-entrenched custom with roots that go back hundreds of years. However, in these modern times it can be difficult to get kids out of the “me, me, me” mindset, where they’re focused only on getting gifts – not giving them. Take a look below at a few ways to teach your kids to truly appreciate what holiday time means.
Focus on the less fortunate
Every year, try making charity work a part of your holiday. It could be volunteering at a soup kitchen, collecting old toys for the needy, or participating in a fundraising project. This will help remind kids that not everyone has it as easy as they do.
Set gifting limits
Instead of a present free-for-all, limit gift-giving to only a few items of significance. Stress the importance of handmade or meaningful gifts, rather than just those based on the latest fashions or trends.
Write Thank-You’s
Make sure each child writes his or her own thank-you notes for every gift received. You can make this more fun by buying or making decorated cards or stationery.