MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE: GIVE TOYS INSTEAD OF CLOTHING FOR CHRISTMAS By Dr. Jon Kester

Today it seems that society is more interested in becoming a disconnected world instead of coming together with the mission of making society. As both an educator and a parent, I have decided to not just sit by and let the division continue. One way I can make a difference is through some simple suggestions that people can follow which could have a positive impact on their family and community.

This month suggestion has to do with the most magical and joyous time of the year, Christmas. Children all over the world will wake up Christmas morning with anticipation of getting that new, cool toy. However many kids will open up their presents with flurry of ribbons, paper and excitement only to find that instead of the toy they have been dreaming about is a sweater. So let’s make society and Christmas better by giving kids toys for Christmas instead of clothing.  

I have personally witnessed how giving clothes to kids can suck the Christmas joy out of children. In my family we have a certain Nanna who refuses to buy my young kids toys. She will only buy them clothing (mostly pajamas and shoes). So every Christmas morning my kids are all excited to see what are in the three or four neatly wrapped presents from Nana only quickly to be heartbroken when they find out that in the beautifully wrapped box is a pair of stone washed jeans or a new polo shirt. Their Christmas joy and excitement immediately turns to a Melancholy, “Thank You” coming out of a smile less face.  The good news is there is still time before Christmas; it’s not too late to buy toys. 

The first start to buying that special kiddo in your life a toy over clothing is to make sure you buy the right type of toy that the child in your life want. In order to buy the best toy a little reconnaissance need to be done. The best people to help find that magnificent toy are either the kid’s parents, siblings. You could cut out the middleman and go right to the source and ask the kids themselves as well if you don’t mind it not being a surprise. If for some reason you don’t have the direct access to the family then ask a kid you know around their age what they would like. 

Also be sure to take into consideration the child’s personalities. Believe it or not, receiving toys can be stressful for kids, especially kids with a tendency toward apprehension. Some personality types of children want to create their own gift lists and do not enjoy receiving “off-the-list items”.  However some kids really enjoy spontaneity and love surprises. Remember some toys can be stressful to receive due to the fact they imply certain expectations, which a child may be uneasy about fulfilling.

Conclusion:

Remember that the best part of giving gifts to kids is to see that smile on their face make this occur by giving toys.  So please this holiday season understanding that the children in your life Christmas go far beyond what size they wear and are about the toys they dream about.   

Though this article is based on buying toys over clothing for Christmas always remember that the thrill of a new toy doesn’t last. The best gift we can give any child is our time! But this is for another article.