Christmas is around the corner. How do you explain to a 7-year-old that money is tight? That the usual gifts and new clothing they get to wear every Christmas is not an option this year? Before you decide to give your kids some tough love and stress them with your financial trials while you are at it, it’s worth considering how you can make this year’s Christmas the most memorable ever with the little you have.
The fondest childhood memories are around the things kids do with their family rather than the gifts they received every Christmas. So spend time with your family, get to know them and make special memories that no money in the world can buy. It’s never about what you buy – It’s all about what you do.
That said, here are a couple of ways, we think, you can make your Christmas magical without breaking the bank.
Dedicate all your time to your family
Put your phone away, computers off, disconnect with the rest of the world and focus on your family this holiday season. Time is a special gift from parents that most children never get to experience. Whether it means, preparing a meal together, decorating your home as a team or playing games and just relaxing, time spent with people you love can never be replaced by any fancy gifts.
Teach your family the gift of giving
If money is low, it’s the perfect time to start a new tradition this Christmas. Collect all the toys and clothing that are in good condition and are not often used and give them to a Children’s home near you. Visit a charity home with your family and spend time with the less fortunate. You can even invite a homeless person in your area to share a meal with your family this Christmas season. You’ll feel so much better when you know you’ve made someone else feel special.
How to save on Christmas decorations
You can reuse decorations which you put up the previous years. If you have kids, then let them craft some nice cards and decorations for your home. It gives you a chance to spend time with your family crafting nice homemade Christmas cards and builds excitement as the D-day approaches. You can even take glass jars and fill them with LED lights to brighten up the house and make it look more festive. No need to spend a dime on Christmas decorations if money is low.
Plan your meals
Forget the habit of snacking and poor eating this Christmas season and even your wallet will thank you for it. Have healthy homemade meals. You can bake your own cookies or buns, together with the kids, and limit the amount of sugar you put in your Christmas treats. Save up a bit of money now and shop for ingredients instead of spending a lot on junk food. Healthy smoothies are also better than sodas so start shopping for fruits and stock in them in your fridge to make some healthy drinks.
Smart Shopping for Christmas
If you have to go shopping, wait for the amazing deals and discounts offered by most stores for Christmas. You can get foodstuffs at discounted prices by looking at your local supermarkets for discounts offered. There are shops that are dedicated to selling Christmas gifts and you can get some really nice toys for your kids at very low prices. If you are really set on travelling for a vacation, you may want to look for a discounted package offered by tours and travel companies. Start shopping and comparing packages now and make early bookings, before the prices skyrocket.
Activities you can do for free
Sit down and list all the activities you can do with your family for free during the Christmas season. Whether it’s visiting the local park, going to church for the usual service and back home, think of something that will keep the family outside the home without costing you much money.
It’s the thought that counts
As cliché as it sounds, you shouldn’t underestimate the value of anything you do for your loved ones during Christmas. You might make it the most amazing Christmas season if you dedicate your time to these precious people and save a bit on money while you are at it.