The Times They Are A Changing

If I had a chance I would do it all different. How many times have you heard that phrase, or even said it yourself? Well, I’m no exception. If I could do it over and was raising children now, I wouldn’t be beating my brains out trying to find the latest tech toy they’ve asked for. It’s not that I don’t think kids need to know how to use the latest technology to be competitive in the world today, I do. I just don’t think we are doing them any favors by making sure they have “everything every one else has. I do, I just don‘t think that Christmas is the time to concentrate on those kinds of things. Those expensive gadgets should be at least partially earned by the child. By not doing so we breed an “I’m entitled” attitude in them that takes them off the real path of life and what it’s all about.

Okay, I’m off my soapbox.

Teach your child to sew, knit, crochet or any other kind of skill you possess. Purchase a cool basket and fill it with their favorite color of yarn, knitting needles and a beginners book. Let them go at it themselves and just be there for helping or getting them started. I have taught classes and had quit a few boys wanting to learn - so it’s not just for girls.

Any kind of craft basket is cool. Bead Basket with beading tools, beads, wire, etc. Art basket with drawing paper, drawing penciles or acrilic paints and brushes. A scrapbooking basket with an inexpensive digital camera, fancy papers and a photo book. Sewing basket with fabric and an easy pattern to make something fun and learn to sew.

A tool box with basic tools are cool. If you have woodworking skills it’s a good way to bond with your child by doing a small project together like a bird house. I’ve seen these in pink and purple as well as red and blue.

Kids need to know how to do the basic stuff. These kinds of gifts are more personal and even if the kids don’t get into them at first, they will eventually try them out. Don’t be selfish by getting your child things that make you feel good. Teach them about the meaning of Christmas and they will thank you, even if it is someday in the future.

Maybe I wasn’t quite off my soapbox yet.