As I chatted with a friend about holiday preparations, I asked her, “What’s going into your kids’ stockings this year?” She shrugged, saying, “Just some cheap things from the dollar store. You know, to save money.” She had already splurged on a gaming console her kids had been eyeing for months, so making their stockings as special didn’t seem worthwhile to her.
My friend’s approach isn’t uncommon. Many parents in the online communities I follow are debating what to fill their kids’ stockings with this holiday season. Some suggest a quick trip to the dollar store for plastic toys, candy, and other trinkets that can be hastily dumped in stockings on Christmas Eve. While this method is certainly easy and affordable, I can’t help but think it’s wasteful—spending $20 on disposable items isn’t really saving money or respecting the environment.
Now, I’m not proposing we revert to outdated traditions like tossing a lone orange into the toe of the stocking, but there’s a middle ground. The four-gift rule can also be applied to stockings!
What is the Four-Gift Rule?
Are you familiar with it? This rule simplifies holiday giving, where each child receives four gifts: something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. For instance, a new video game could satisfy their want; a bike helmet addresses their need; a cozy pajama set serves the wear category; and a comic book fulfills the reading element. It’s a fantastic approach, especially for larger families like mine.
Implementing the four-gift rule helps me keep spending in check and ensures fairness when it comes to gift-giving. Christmas morning can be tricky if one child thinks the other has received more! Plus, this method helps me stay organized amid the whirlwind of shopping for not only my kids but also my five nephews and extended family.
Thoughtful Stocking Stuffers
Why not invest in thoughtful items that your kids will cherish instead of filling their stockings with things that will end up in the trash? This year, my children will discover four meaningful items in their stockings:
- Favorite Snack: Something they always request but I typically deny them at the store. One child is getting a box of fruity cereal bars, which contain no actual fruit but are a guilty pleasure.
- Something for Their Feet: Each child will receive socks or slippers to wear with their new pajamas, making for a fun addition. Who doesn’t love a pair of shark or unicorn slippers? And I didn’t skimp: instead of a bulk bag of plain white socks, I found a stylish pair featuring their favorite athletic brand.
- A Book: My kids love reading, and I know many parents complain that theirs don’t, but as a former English teacher, I believe any reading counts! Consider a comic book, magazine subscription, or even a fun bath book for little ones.
- Small Building Block Sets: These could easily be swapped for small toys, cute keychains for their backpacks, or even a unique ornament that reflects their interests this year.
The best part? Our budget remains intact, and every item will be utilized. No one wants to deal with a 100-piece puzzle that’s bound to lose half its pieces within minutes of opening.
Don’t Forget About Your Partner!
I’d be overjoyed to receive a $5 gift card to Starbucks (because I want to try the new holiday drink), a lovely candle from Target, some delightful chocolate, and a coupon for a well-deserved nap (this mama is tired).
Incorporating the four-gift rule into your family’s Christmas stockings can be both budget-friendly and meaningful. Plus, you won’t have to worry about items ending up in the trash shortly after. For more festive ideas, check out this link for additional holiday inspiration.
Conclusion
In summary, the four-gift rule not only enhances the joy of Christmas for children but also keeps spending reasonable. It allows for thoughtful gifts that will be genuinely appreciated and utilized, making the holiday season more magical without breaking the bank.