redfred's Profile

My young daughter gets a little talk about expectations before any gift giving event. Her instructions are pretty simple because at 4 she can only be expected to remember so much when excited. Her father and I have reassured her that if she gets something she doesn’t want/like/already has we will help her find a new home for it. Gifts are a kindness from someone else and you say thank you and AFTER we are alone again she can tell us if it’s not something she wants to keep because no one else’s feelings will be hurt. Gifts should be viewed as a kindness not a requirement and the child should respond to the act of giving verses the item received. If it’s not something a child wants somewhere out in the world another child can be found that would appreciate the gift. Now if we can only get her to stop trying to save ALL of the wrapping paper.