What children really want for Christmas By Doris A. Black Feature Writer
Has
it ever occured to you in this fast-paced world that all your child may really want for Christmas is to spend a little more time with you? This year, why not try giving a gift that will allow for just that? Be honest. Have you ever hesitated purchasing a gift for
your child because you knew it would require you to help them put it together, participate in some way or supervise the use of the gift? Have you ever NOT bought a gift because it would infringe on your time? Most parents have. To avoid getting involved, many parents, whether consciously or unconsciously, purchase gifts that will keep the kids occupied and serve
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as babysitters while they do something else. Video and computer games are excellent examples. Kids will literally sit in front of the TV or monitor for hours at a time playing these games. Although it is most often a solitary endeavor, friends can join in the fun with multiple player units, serving as a babysitter for multiple kids. To make a positive impact on your kids’ lives, experts recommend giving gifts that require family participation. Your kids probably won’t appreciate them now, but it will make a difference in the way they view the world and in the way they respond to others. Try giving an age-appropriate board game, such as Chutes and Ladders, Life or Monopoly. If these silly games are not for you, there are many educational games that teach geography, history or science. How about the gift of a good book
that you can read to your child? The Harry Potter series is an excellent choice for children seven years or older. Each book is wonderf ully imaginative and entertaining for adults as well as kids. If you’ve already read them, try the Chronicles of Narnia book series.
Flip on the TV and spend some time with the kids watching their favorite show. Notice how excited they get because you’re there with them. It may be difficult to sit through an episode of Hey Arnold or Rug Rats, but try to keep your mind on the show. Asking questions about the characters will let your kids show off
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their knowledge. Sit through the commercials, too. During the holiday season, children are bombarded with commercials. Watch the advertisements with them and point out how the advertisers make the toys appear fun or cool. Teach your children to be wise consumers by analyzing the ads, looking for flaws or listening to what is actually said about the product. While you are spending time with your kids, it’s important to listen carefully. Often, during this time together, kids will express their thoughts or worries unrelated to the subject at hand. Instead of focusing on the board game you’re playing, focus on your child no matter where the conversation leads.
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It is important not to put a time limit on your special time. We often say, “Okay, let’s play for half an hour before dinner,” or something similar. This creates a sense of urgency and puts pressure on the entire experience. Keep playtime open to allow for spontaneity. If there isn’t time to build the Lincoln Log cabin and play with it before dinner, wait until later when you won’t be interrupted by other responsibilities.
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Now that you know what your kids really want for Christmas, go out and find the best hands-on products you can enjoy together.
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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Monday, December 17, 2012