Parents have been familiar with the 4-gift guideline for quite some time. To keep the holiday spirit alive without going overboard, we should embrace this rule when it comes to gifting our kids. To recap, the 4-gift guideline means giving each child something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. It’s really that straightforward.
This year, we can all breathe a little easier. We don’t have to overindulge our kids, accumulate credit card debt, or rush from store to store during a global pandemic. The 4-gift guideline is more appealing than ever for several reasons.
1. Encourages Staying Home
The 4-gift guideline encourages us to stay home more. In previous years, we would make numerous trips to the store for “just a few items,” ensuring our kids received an equal number of gifts and stocking stuffers. This year, we are avoiding stores as much as possible. We are opting for online shopping and curbside pickup, making the process much simpler with fewer items to buy.
2. Budget-Friendly
The 4-gift guideline is budget-friendly. With job changes affecting many households this year, parents are navigating tighter holiday budgets. This guideline helps us create and adhere to a plan that won’t deplete our finances or leave us with a hefty credit card bill in January. You can save more by shopping early, comparing prices, and taking advantage of price-matching policies.
3. Simplifies Gift-Giving
The 4-gift guideline simplifies the gift-giving process. Every year, I see parents expressing their confusion over what to buy for their kids, especially since many already have an abundance of toys and gadgets. While I love the holiday season as much as anyone, I don’t want gift-giving to turn into a stressful task. Having a “rule” to follow helps me avoid the last-minute scramble for gifts that may not be appreciated. Plus, the gifts they receive are practical and usable.
4. Teaches Kids to Prioritize
The 4-gift guideline teaches kids to prioritize. My children have circled every toy in every catalog again this year. However, they understand that we cannot purchase everything. Knowing that we stick to the 4-gift rule encourages them to prioritize what they really want, ensuring those items fit into the four categories. My kids have already written their “Dear Santa” letters outlining their top choices.
5. Extends to Stockings
The 4-gift guideline extends to stockings too. We apply this rule not only to wrapped gifts but also to stocking stuffers. Typically, stockings include four items such as a rolled-up t-shirt, a favorite snack, another book, and a small toy like a Lego set. I avoid purchasing cheap trinkets that usually end up broken or forgotten. Instead, we allocate a budget for four meaningful and enjoyable stocking gifts, which are often delightful surprises.
6. Alleviates Guilt
The 4-gift guideline alleviates the guilt. Many parents aim for fairness in gifting among their children, which can lead to budgeting and shopping stress. By giving each child four gifts, we can focus on the overall budget and the individual wants and needs, rather than worrying about financial equality among gifts. So far, we haven’t received any complaints.
Applying the 4-Gift Guideline to Partners
The 4-gift guideline can also be applied to partners. Finding the right gift for a partner can be challenging, and I often see parents seeking suggestions on social media. Remember, there’s no obligation to buy gifts for your partner, but if you choose to do so, consider using the 4-gift rule. It sets clear expectations while allowing room for creativity and surprises.
Extending the Guideline Beyond Immediate Family
Moreover, the 4-gift guideline can extend beyond your immediate family. It can be tough to know what to gift your boss, neighbor, best friend, or parents. Instead of defaulting to generic gift cards, try applying the 4-gift rule. These gifts don’t have to break the bank. For instance, I recently bought my mother-in-law a book I loved earlier this year. Tech gloves are also a hit and cost just a few dollars a pair. If you have grandparents or other relatives who tend to overindulge your kids, consider suggesting they adopt the 4-gift guideline this year.
This holiday season may look different, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a festive and joyful time. While 2020 requires some creativity and adaptability, I’m confident we can make it work. The 4-gift guideline is a fantastic way to ensure a cheerful Christmas with family.
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Summary:
The article discusses the benefits of the 4-gift rule during the holiday season, emphasizing its ability to simplify gift-giving, stay within budget, and help children prioritize their wants. It highlights how the approach can be applied to both children and adults, making the festive season more enjoyable without the stress of overindulgence.
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