I feel down because I know I can't give them everything they want. So the family compromises. This year they chose a Nintendo 64 system. Colburn said she will throw in a couple of games, too. They're happy when they get something because they know they don't get much.
Compromise can be effective when parents involve their children in the decision-making.
When making out a wish list, for example, kids can be encouraged to prioritize what they want. That way they will not be as disappointed when they do not get everything on the list. Planning required It takes careful planning to prevent kids from succumbing to severe attacks of coveting on holiday shopping trips. Explain before you go shopping what, exactly, you're going to do. She recommends that parents avoid hauling their young children on all-day shopping excursions.