Helping a child to value and cherish every gift they receive can be a valuable lesson.
- When it comes to unwrapping gifts, encourage the child to discover and appreciate one gift at a time so that he or she fully concentrates on each new toy or book and takes the time to explore all its facets.
- If they don’t like a gift, encourage them to talk about it and explain why. This can teach him that it’s okay to have preferences and that it’s important to communicate them respectfully.
- By involving your child in the giving process, letting them choose or create a gift for others, you can also help them cultivate a spirit of generosity.
In an age of overconsumption, the abundance of gifts can sometimes overwhelm children who have forgotten the importance of deep appreciation. As parents, you can guide them to appreciate every gift they receive, making it a lesson in the pleasure of giving.
Start in moderation: one gift at a time
Generosity from family and friends is always welcome, but receiving too many gifts at once can be overwhelming for a child. When it comes to unwrapping them, encourage him to discover and appreciate one gift at a time so that he fully concentrates on each new toy or book and takes the time to explore all its facets.
For example, after opening a gift, spend some time playing with the new toy before moving on to the next one. This shows him the importance of patience and appreciation for the little things.
Encourage expression of emotions and communication
It is crucial to allow your child to express their feelings, whether joy or disappointment. Encourage him through open dialogue to share his reactions to show him that you understand and respect his emotions.
If they don’t like a gift, encourage them to talk about it and explain why. This can teach him that it’s okay to have preferences and that it’s important to communicate them respectfully. Moreover, it can also help you get to know his likes and interests better for future occasions.
Teach him the pleasure of giving
By involving your child in the giving process, you can help them cultivate a spirit of generosity. Let them choose or create a gift for someone else, such as making a card or preparing a small craft.
The act of giving can be very rewarding and teach him that pleasure can also reside in the happiness of others. For example, seeing the smile of a friend or family member upon receiving a gift they prepared themselves can enhance appreciation of one’s own gifts.
Learn more: “The Generous Tree” by Shel Silverstein.
