The Best Gift You Can Give Your Kids Is Not A Hatchimal

Every year, the toy craze du jour sends parents frantically using their FBI skills to track down the “perfect” gift for their child. The coveted gift is likely no longer in stores and can only be purchased on ebay for three times its original price. These parents dedicate a great deal of time trying to give kids want they want. “Oh, won’t they be so happy,” the parents say. “My child is so special to me and I just want to make him/her happy.”

This year’s top toy, the Hatchimal, is very impressive! It’s a plush robot inside of an egg that hatches when you take care of it and once hatched, responds to commands. Boy have we come a long way from the cabbage patch doll!

Those of us who haven’t found lasting happiness through material goods can agree that having the coolest toy doesn’t always make us happy. Meaningful relationships can be the gifts that truly keep on giving. It may not seem like it, but your kids will likely agree.

One recent survey asked kids if they could eat dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be – to which the majority replied, “my mom” or “my dad.” While spending lots of money on holiday gifts can in some way demonstrate your dedication to your child, the memories you’ll create through shared experiences will last longer.  

This holiday season, I encourage you to spend quality time with your children. Play games as a family. Bake something special together. Take a walk or go for a bike ride around the neighborhood. And if you happen to be a “lucky” one who purchased a Hatchimal, get involved in the process and share in the excitement together.

As a friendly reminder, be mindful about your kids’ exposure to alcohol and prescription drugs over the holidays. Model responsible behavior and take precautions so it doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.

Happy holidays,
Peggy