10 Gifts You Buy for Your Kids for Christmas That Will Make You a Lazy Parent, Pro Lists
It’s Christmas Day and you watch your little ones open the presents under the decorated tree.
One by one, their little hands remove the wrapping paper and you watch their faces light up as they discover a brand new iPhone hidden inside – or maybe it’s the skin care kit the tween has been working on for months.
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After all, this is exactly what they wanted and they kept bugging you in the run-up to the manic Christmas shopping.
But while the kids will certainly be happy with their pressies, have you ever wondered what these gifts say about YOU, the parent behind them?
Well, one expert in the field – and mother of two – Kirsty Ketley has gone all out – so if you still have to go to the shops, you might want to take a listen.
From high-end tech to Aldi’s viral sold-out wooden toys, here’s what the parenting guru has to say about your gifts this year – and why it’s bad news if you’re considering buying iPads…
Skin care for tweens and teens
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It is very dangerous to respond to the marketing around these brands and trends.
It is so important that parents understand the damage they can do to their children by buying expensive creams and lotions, not only to their skin, but also to their self-esteem and self-perception.
Also, the idea that parents feel they need this stuff can make children feel unworthy or not good enough in the skin they are in. Because if their parents don’t see them well enough, how can they feel good enough in themselves? ?
I think it’s definitely important to teach children how to care for their skin, but the GRWM [Get Ready With Me] trends and capitalizing on the marketing of these brands, very careful consideration must be given to how these will impact their child further down the line.
iPads or other expensive technology
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Parents may struggle to find offline entertainment options for their children or lean toward high-tech involvement, seeing technology as both a practical solution and a status symbol.
They may also enjoy being aware of technology themselves and are very tech savvy, perhaps implying that they view digital literacy as essential.
Although we live in a highly digitalized world, I think technology should be heavily monitored and limits should be placed on its use.
It is irresponsible to allow children to spend the holidays behind screens and prevent them from spending good, quality family time.
It prevents them from forming and maintaining close bonds with family members and means they miss out on other important aspects of childhood.
It also helps encourage screen addiction and a reliance on screens to self-soothe. Moderation is key.
Aldi/Lidl toys
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A trend-conscious parent may love these toys and see them as quality, aesthetically pleasing and affordable, showing that they want the ‘best’ without spending a lot of money.
They are usually good value for money compared to the bigger brands, but this can be a regrettable purchase if the mums only buy them because they are ‘trendy’ and to make their Instagram feed look cool because their kids aren’t interested in buying them – which is possible, they will be a waste of money, and they will deter someone else from buying something who has a child who really wants one.
You could say that the mothers are selfish because they put their own needs (social media validation) above those of others.
Latest clothing brands/trends
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Parents who are very fashion conscious and want to pass that on to their child, possibly projecting the idea of a mini fashionista.
This can also indicate the child’s desire to fit in, stay trendy, or even stand out in a stylish way.
Maybe they never felt like they had anything “trendy” as a child, so they’re reliving their own childhood, or maybe they did and feel like they should do the same thing their parents did before them.
This could also reflect a parent’s desire to project status, or to give their children a sense of belonging in certain social circles.
A term to describe this phenomenon might be “brand-centered parenting.”
How to Save Money on Christmas Shopping
Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how to save money on your Christmas shopping.
Limit the number of presents – buying presents for all your family and friends can cost a bomb.
Instead, why not host a Secret Santa among your inner circles so you don’t have to buy multiple presents?
Plan ahead – if you have the stamina and the budget, it’s worth buying your Christmas presents for next year during the January sales.
Make sure you shop for the best deals by using price comparison sites so you don’t spend more than you need to.
Buy on sale on Boxing Day – some retailers are starting their Christmas sales early so you can actually score a bargain before December 25th.
Delivery may cost you a little more, but it could be worth it if the savings are significant.
Shop through outlet stores – you can save a lot of money by shopping through outlet stores such as Amazon Warehouse or Office Offcuts.
They work by selling returned or slightly damaged products at a discounted rate, but usually the wear and tear is minor.
Books
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Parents who provide books often view reading as a fundamental part of their children’s development.
They see the merit in children enjoying books and might be book lovers themselves.
It may also indicate a preference for ‘healthy’ or screen-free activities.
STEM kits
Parents who choose these gifts may be STEM enthusiasts themselves and prioritize educational play, as well as hoping that their child will grow up with a strong foundation in science and technology, perhaps even indicating an ambition to be a “future innovator” to educate.
Sports equipment
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Parents choosing sports equipment can prioritize physical activity in their children.
It may also be that they are sporty and want to give their child the opportunity to play sports themselves.
Arts and crafts
Choosing art-related gifts suggests that parents value creativity, self-expression and perhaps even the mental health benefits of artistic hobbies.
This is probably a parent who doesn’t mind kids getting messy and also enjoys crafts.
Collectibles – Squishmallows, Pokémon cards
These parents may enjoy keeping up with the latest toy trends and want their child to feel at home by knowing what’s “in.”
Teaching children that they have to have the latest fad is not a good thing.
While it can be harmless and a bit of fun to collect things like Squismallows, it can teach children that having material things is more important than anything else.
Experience gifts
Parents may want to prioritize memories and bonding over material things.
It suggests a love for quality time and trying new experiences and giving a child the opportunity to try new things.
