5 ways to create a magical, memorable Christmas, without spending big bucks.

The festive season is fast approaching, and although nobody wants to go all Grinchy this Christmas, a lot of us are feeling the financial pinch.  

Rising costs mean lavish gifts and massive menus may have lost their sparkle, but if you’re worried about how to sprinkle loads of Christmas joy without splashing lots of cash, then don’t be! 

The parenting experts at Triple P have come up with five ways to make these holidays magical and memorable for your little one, without too much financial stress.  

Here are their top tips for us parents.

 

1. Focus on giving the gift of time. 

After a busy year of work and childcare, the holidays are a chance to unwind and regroup as a family, and there really is no greater gift than giving your child your undivided attention.  

Some one-on-one time will make them feel secure and special, while building your bond and bolstering their mental health; and Triple P says you can add a festive flavour to parent-child moments by giving your child a ‘gift voucher’ to spend on activities they’re excited about, whether that’s visiting the beach on Christmas Day or taking all the teddies to the park for a play.  

2. Start, or continue, a family tradition.  

Triple P says, ‘Children can feel a sense of family belonging and have lots of fun with family traditions,’ and the good thing about family traditions is that they’re usually cheap or totally free.  

Checking out your neighbourhood’s Christmas lights or going along to a Council-run parade are two fun traditions that can be repeated year on year, and Triple P says it’s also fun to create your own Christmas rituals. 

For instance, you could, ‘Make an event out of tree decorating with homemade decorations, have a festive baking session, or let your child create a song playlist for holiday festivities.’ 

3. Encourage ‘less is more’ when it comes to presents.  

Little ones’ Christmas wish lists can be LARGE and looooooong, but with the cost of living the way it is, and mass consumerism not so great for Mother Earth, it may pay to temper your child’s expectations.  

To do this kindly, Triple P suggests that you, ‘Set a realistic price range early on and ask your child to name one or two presents on their “top wish” list. This helps to manage expectations and makes it more likely the presents will be appreciated and used.’  

You can also look for cheaper, but just as good, versions of the things your child would love.  

Switching brands or buying second-hand (in beautiful condition) can really cut Christmas present costs, and Triple P says the whole gifting process provides a great opportunity to talk to your child about the value of money. 

As part of this, you can also encourage healthy saving habits. 

Triple P says, ‘It’s never too early for children to start saving pocket money towards a treat or bigger item. This can boost their self-esteem and provide a sense of achievement when they reach their goal,’ and this article contains some great advice to help you develop money awareness in your under-five.  

4. Teach your child the joy of giving.  

It’s always nice to open a present, and Christmas is largely about the kids, but the festive season is also a time to share the joy, and take pleasure in giving, as well as receiving.  

To do this, Triple P says you can, ‘Encourage your child to create handmade or upcycled gifts, like cards, ornaments, or personalised crafts.’ 

As well as keeping costs down, this kind of creative gifting helps your child to learn about the joy of giving, and Triple P says, ‘Focusing on the effort and thought they put into the gifts, will be appreciated by the recipient.’ 

 You can also give back to your community, by donating things like toys or baby clothes, or volunteering your time. 

For instance, your childcare centre might be hosting a charity initiative or event that you can contribute to, and Triple P says this kind of involvement is really beneficial for your child. 

They explain that, ‘Spreading kindness and joy helps to build your child’s social skills and emotional wellbeing, and let’s not forget the warm inner glow that comes with doing something thoughtful for another person.’ 

5. Make sure you treat yourself as well.  

It’s been a busy year, with the added pressure of a cost-of-living crisis, and although there’s fun to be had sprinkling Christmas joy around the place and creating magical moments for your child, it’s also a good idea to spoil yourself a little.  

This could mean a coffee catch-up without your kid in tow, a nice long bath with a homemade face mask, or whatever brings you joy. 

Triple P says, “Caring for your own needs first and taking the time to recharge your battery by doing something healthy and beneficial can make it easier to remain calm and positive during stressful times,’ and this also shows your child, ‘How to cope with uncertainty and difficult situations.’ 

 All of the above tips are easy to apply, and they’ll ensure a feel-good Festivus. 

Triple P International Country Director, Carol Markie-Dadds says, “The true spirit of the festive season can be found in spending quality time together and giving your child the love, nurturing, and sense of security that comes from a strong family bond.  

“These tips are not just about saving money; they’re about creating cherished memories and strengthening your relationship for the years to come,” and we wish you a very merry (and money-wise) holiday season!