Do our children get too many presents? The four-gift rule
When there are too many parcels, no present is fully enjoyed. The four-gift rule suggests choosing fewer and better ones.
At Christmas or on their birthday, many children receive more presents than they can take in. They open one parcel after another, barely looking at what is inside, and a few days later they no longer play with them.
What happens when there are too many
It becomes hard to value what they receive, their tolerance of frustration drops and play becomes more superficial. On top of that, celebrations become linked to piling things up rather than to being together.
The four-gift rule
- Something they want. The present they wished for.
- Something they need. A school bag, equipment for an activity.
- Something to wear. Clothes or shoes.
- Something to read.
Some families add a fifth present to share: a board game or a day out.
How to put it into practice
- Talk it over with godparents and relatives and suggest joint presents or experiences.
- Help your child write a short, thoughtful wish list.
- Put some of the presents away and bring them out over the year.
- Before the holidays, choose toys together to give away.
What stays with them
When we ask adults about the Christmases of their childhood, they usually remember the people and the traditions more than the objects. Fewer presents leave more room for all of that.