Every year, the day after a holiday or my children’s birthdays feels like a whirlwind of chaos. Not only do I experience the usual post-celebration fatigue, but I also find myself battling the urge to grab a trash bag and declutter the sheer volume of stuff that has invaded our home. This overwhelming influx often leaves me feeling irritable and exhausted.
The same scenario unfolds after casual visits from family and friends. We all have those generous individuals in our lives who find joy in gifting our kids just because. While I appreciate their kindness, I like to maintain a tidy and organized home, which makes it easier to locate essential items like socks or my sanity. Unfortunately, their gift-giving enthusiasm has outpaced my ability to manage the clutter.
Candy, plastic toys, glow sticks, and even slime kits seem to multiply in every corner of the house, including the freezer. This creates a dilemma when my gelato gets pushed aside for some science kit that requires freezing — sorry kids, but gelato wins. There have been occasions when my children return from a friend’s birthday party with so much treasure, you’d think it was their own special day.
I understand the joy of giving and the happiness it brings to children. However, I’ve observed that their excitement often turns into overwhelm, leading to the classic “I’m bored” cry and the relentless demand for something new. We’ve all been there as parents, spending time and money on toys only for our little ones to find joy in the cardboard box instead. It seems they often prefer the simpler pleasures, like popping bubble wrap.
When kids are consistently greeted with, “Look at what I got you!” it fosters a sense of entitlement. They come to expect gifts during visits, leading to overindulgence during holidays and birthdays. This repetition diminishes the specialness of receiving gifts, and soon enough, they start to wonder what they’ll get from each visit rather than cherishing the time spent with family and friends.
I might come across as ungrateful, but let me be clear: Please stop showering my kids with excessive gifts. They certainly don’t need them. Your love is evident, and I’m grateful for your presence in their lives. However, there are countless ways to express that affection without making a pit stop at the store before visiting. Just because they hint at wanting the latest toy doesn’t mean it’s necessary — especially if it’s something as absurd as a poop emoji bean bag. If it ends up in my house, I can’t promise it won’t mysteriously disappear back into your car.
Instead, I’d love for you to visit, take the kids to the park, or simply tell them how much you care. If you’re inclined to spend money, consider investing in a gym membership so you can keep up with their active playtime, or perhaps treat yourself to a coffee before coming over. That way, you’ll be in great shape for their endless questions about everything from the mysteries of this planet to their quirky “what if” scenarios.
I fully expect to be seen as a grouch for wanting to limit gifts, but the kids will adjust. What they truly crave is your undivided attention, so spare yourself the pressure of gift-giving. Save your time and resources; we have enough stuff already.
However, if you still feel compelled to bring something, a latte with double whipped cream would be a delightful treat for me during your next visit.
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Summary:
This article addresses the challenge of excessive gifting from family and friends. The author expresses a desire for loved ones to refrain from overwhelming children with unnecessary presents, advocating instead for spending quality time together. By prioritizing experiences over material items, the author believes children will find more joy and connection with their family.