Jodi Parrish
No one wants to see disappointed faces on Christmas morning, but how do you keep your kids happy for the holidays during tough economic times? 7's Byron Barnett has some ideas for you in tonight's Parent to Parent.
Every child wishes for that special gift this time of year, but strained budgets and a sagging economy may have parents saying ho-ho-no!
Deborah O'Neill, Mother of three
"I really tried to think about it this year and what we really needed, and what the kids would actually use."
Deborah O'Neill is a mom of three, and says that shopping months ahead of time helped her stay on budget.
Deborah O'Neill, Mother of three
"And so back in October, I started doing my shopping and trying to find the best deal on each toy."
Her three-year-old Lily was easy to buy for.
Deborah O'Neill, Mother of three
"Lily's needs so far have been simple. She's asked for a full length mirror and a princess watch."
But her five-year-old son Connor is a little more savvy.
Deborah O'Neill, Mother of three
"Connor is definitely getting to the age where commercials have a big impact on him and he wants everything he sees."
Here's one idea to help parents deal with a long wish list from kids.
Maureen O'Brien, Ph.D, Parenting coach
"If they are believers you can say Santa was really busy this year so we need to make a shorter list."
It's an approach that's worked for Deborah.
Deborah O'Neill, Mother of three
"We try to explain to them that Santa has a lot of people to buy for and that it can get expensive and Santa has to make choices also."
And experts advise against getting caught up in the commercialism.
Maureen O'Brien, Ph.D, Parenting coach
"Did I make it a big deal? Did I make it more about the stuff? And that won't make it better this year, but it will help from setting that disappointment up then for the next year."
Some simple rules so you don't break the bank this holiday season.
(Copyright (c) 2008 Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
