Five Christmas Gifts our Kids can Do Without

We all know that the holiday season isn’t all about gifts - at least in the Christian world - but it’s a time-honored tradition, and a momentous mirth to give and receive neatly wrapped presents, quite especially so for children. Although the origins of this custom are debatable, the most sensible story would date back to the three wise men, or the Magi, who offered precious Myrhh, an anointing oil; Frankincense, a perfume or incense ingredient, and gold, to the infant Jesus in the manger. While I don’t think your child would have a healthy appreciation if he or she receives a large jar of Myrhh from a Ninong, there are other things that children have had quite enough of. For sure, some would justify their choice of gifts by using the much-too-often-heard “It’s the thought that counts!” phrase, but we do have to face up to the real world.

As a child of a simple businessman, I wondered who all these Titos and Titas were, sending me the coolest GI Joe figurines. I didn’t take long to figure out that they happened to run other enterprises “bidding” for next year’s supply purchases. I also have a developmentally disabled relative who would make me toys out of cut-outs and glue. As I matured, I treasured the makeshift toys more. But alas, whatever the intention, there are still a few things our children can truly, and I’m not afraid to say, toss out. Here is my little scroll of the aforesaid.

1. Bootleg Toys or Clothing
We all are aware of the global economic crisis, and our personal endeavors to save money are of immense priority, but, Ninongs and Ninangs, offering pirated goods to children is never a good way to cut down on expenses. First of all, many materials used are not approved by the appropriate government bureaus and therefore may contain harmful or toxic materials such as lead or dangerous small parts, or even straps that can strangle a toddler. Secondly, procuring something “stolen”, no matter how good a copy it is of the original, is really not cool. There are so many more reasonable alternatives if you are budget-constrained, which, while not as large and impressive, are most definitely classier.

2. Toy Guns
Child Psychologist Gilbert Ong, Ph.D. asserts that these types of toys are not appropriate for children below twelve. Other studies say that they are not good for children of any age, yet Dr. Ong explains that “Guns are everywhere, movies, TV, and a few parents I work with are responsible gun club members.  It’s difficult to draw the line for younger kids, which warrants constant explanation. Nowadays there are so many toys to choose from, not like in the 80’s na kotse, manika o baril lang, so I believe it’s easier and more sensible to pick a mentally-stimulating toy”. Keep that in mind, as well as the hazards of “pop guns” with actual lead, or projectile guns that can wound or damage eyes.

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3. Workbooks or Educational Text Books
I know this is highly debatable, but unless you know exactly what level a child is working at, you might want to hold off on this gift idea. Workbooks, while definitively helpful and obviously meant to nurture a young mind, may set off a couple of things. It’s the holidays, a time for merriment, and I’m sure you wouldn’t want to receive take home work from your boss before you take your leave, or take an extra shift, or undertake a new project. Kids need this time to immerse themselves in childhood delights. Also, you might give something a little too advanced, which is alright to keep, or conversely, something a child is already accomplished at. Thinking educational? Gift checks for books are right on the money.

4. Sweets
The holiday season is already decked out with toothsome fare, yet some folks are adamant about giving candy canes and cookie houses for Christmas. Although some of these treats can be stored, it may be hard for festive mindsets to take away the goods from happy children, who oftentimes get a free pass at anything gastronomical during the season. As responsible parents, we should keep watch of this, and set good examples and not overindulge for health reasons. As mindful adults, we ought to be aware that tis’ not the season to promote childhood obesity, as there is already so much laid out on the table.

5. Over-the-Top Toys
Yes, if you know and love a child and have the financial means to do so, you will head to the toy store and buy them the latest, craziest thing with a price tag heavier than the item itself. Unless you are the child’s parent or grandparent, playing Santa Claus is not good for the child or parent, as it can present ideas in a child’s mind such as “Tita Joy loves me more than Mommy and Daddy because she got me an XBoX”, most especially so if the parents are financially modest, or have strict values when it comes to excesses. You may purchase something grand, but not excessive in the minds of the parents of the child who you probably know well. Feeling especially generous? Talk to the parents, who are your friends, about opening a bank account or adding funds if one already exists.  

Photo from flickr creativecommons