| Are you ready for the holiday season? Are you overwhelmed thinking about what gifts to get your kids? Worried about the gift-giving budget? Parents across the U.S. are taking a deep breath and gearing up for the season that is supposed to be filled with cheer but is often filled with dread. Teens, on the other hand, are feverishly crafting their wish lists. Most likely topping the list this year is an electronic device, gift cards, make-up, and a million and one other “must-haves” according to TikTok. Keep in mind, though, as that list gets longer and longer, YOU can make the choice to go big or go small. Don’t give in to the societal pressure to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on gifts. I’ve heard horror stories of parents taking out loans, borrowing money from family, or maxing out credit cards to make sure their kids have gifts they “deserve”. And other parents feel resentful as they feel pressured to buy, buy, buy. Don’t lose sight of the meaning of the holidays that you celebrate. The meaning is not entwined with the cost of a gift. And don’t lose sight of the reason you buy gifts for people. Gifts are a way to show that you care about someone. They are meant to say “I was thinking about you AND I know what you like.” And while you are considering what you are going to give to your teen, make sure to put TIME with you at the top of the list. True, they might say “no” when you ask to hang out. They might roll their eyes when you schedule a family game night. And they might even complain about having to spend time with you. But let me tell you a secret that I’ve uncovered while working with hundreds of teens and parents…teens WANT to spend time with you. It makes them feel loved. It gives them a break from navigating the social hierarchy of friendships. It gives them a moment to breathe and reconnect with you. So please consider the gift of TIME. It doesn’t cost much and it adds a lot of value to your relationship with your teen. You got this! With Heart, Coach Sheri P.S. To give the gift of time, you can make a coupon book with things that your teen likes to do. Some ideas- get Boba, go to Starbucks, visit a pet store, go to the movies (their choice), watch TikTok videos with them for 15 minutes. Get creative with this! |
