We decided this year to get both of our boys a new PSP with a couple of games to go with each of them. For us, this was a huge expense as we had to buy 2 of everything, and we have been saving for a while to be able to do this for them. My boys are 6 and 9, and I know my youngest still believes in Santa and my 9 year old claims he does. I think he is too afraid to come out and say there isn't, just in case.....
Anyway, DH feels like seeing as we spent so much money on these gifts they should come from us, not from Santa. That way we can explain to them that they were expensive, they need to be taken care of and for them to understand that they didn't simply fall from the sky for free. (and I am sure, to get a little of the credit for them as well) I totally understand his points and I can't say that I disagree, however...I am torn. My 6 year old still adamently believes, and this is all he asked for from Santa. In letter form, on his lap, and every night before he goes to bed. So how do I explain to him that Santa didn't get this, and why? I want him to get to enjoy the mystery of Santa as long as he can, kids grow up too fast in today's world and if I can keep one thing innocent enough for him, i would truly like too. However I also want him to appreciate what he has, and maybe i am totally overthinking this whole thing. I mean, he has been hoping for the last three months to get one, will he really care who it comes from?
What do you ladies think? By the time we were done with both kids, we spent close to $500 on the whole package, to do one for each of them. This is a lot of money for us. Opinions would be hugely appreciated.
Re: From Santa or not?
Can't you tell them that you really wanted to buy them the game system?
I would tell them that and say the games are from Santa.
But even if you do say it's from Santa, you can still tell them that they need to be careful with it.
I've got more issues than a magazine
When I was growing up, my "big" gifts were always from Santa, but my parents always had the talk with me about the gifts. They would explain how much it cost etc. and remind me that they (mom & dad) are with me all year long and I could lose this "big" gift if I didn't behave like I should.
I really think you can express the price and the importance of the gift and still let them come from Santa. Also, this could be the thing that allows your 9 y.o to hold on to the thought of Santa a little longer. Make the games from you and tell them that you and Santa talked.
If your DH really wants them to come from you guys (for the credit
) you could always tell the kids that dad and Santa played rock, paper, scissors to see who got to give them what they REALLY wanted and Santa won. haha
not.
sorry, I just couldn't resist.
*smile*
This.
When we were kids and believed in Santa, toys came from santa only and my parents got us a few practical gifts (clothes, etc).
I guess for me, the "credit" comes in seeing a child's joy, regardless of whether or not the child is thanking me or Santa.
If it's all he asked for, don't you think he's going to be careful with it anyway?