Table of contents 1. G. Take time for family 2. Serving up the scoop on santa A. Santa ISN'T watching B. Don't perpetuate the fantasy C. Emphasize Santa's attributes 3. Safety first 4. Expect toys to be more expensive, more complex 1.
Advertisers begin their big holiday push months before the holidays arrive.
Children are especially vulnerable to marketing pitches and build their wish lists around this marketing frenzy, providing a real challenge for families struggling to maintain a budget. Ellen Lynch, coordinator of the Early Childhood Care and Education Program at UC's University College, warns that when children are repeatedly asked about what they wish to receive, they will expect to receive a great deal. Moomaw says parents may get more for their money by purchasing one heavily marketed toy and then buying what their children tend to use the most. LESS Parents can help prepare children not to expect the entire gift catalogue. Brenda Hieronymus is an early childhood education specialist at UC's Arlitt Child and Family Research and Education Center.