Christmas shopping is well under way. Black Friday has come and gone. It is interesting that the day that most stores finally make a profit is the day that many consumers begin to increase their debt through holiday spending. People crowd the stores intent on finding the deal that will allow them to purchase items they otherwise couldn’t afford.
There is a pressure to spend money during the holiday season that doesn’t exist through the rest of the year. It is nice to be able to give to others and to provide your children with a nice Christmas. It is also important to take a step back and decide what you truly want to give your children.
The wow factor on Christmas morning is a very exciting feeling. It is equally important to offer your children the opportunity to experience the true joy that comes with giving. It is also important to teach your children the peace that comes with thrift and financial responsibility. You may want to consider giving less to your children, and creating opportunities for them to give to others.
Another great way to teach this is to give gifts of service instead of monetary gifts or presents. This would be great between siblings or among extended family. It can be the gift of a home baked meal, a night of babysitting or completing someone else’s chores. Homemade gifts are another option to save money, and to focus on the aspect of giving.
No matter what route you take, be sure that you take the time to budget your holiday expenses. You can still provide a nice Christmas and a lot of wow Christmas morning while sticking to your budget. You do not want to be paying for Christmas in July. If you did not play as well this year, begin saving money in January for next Christmas.
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