Gifts from the Heart Reduce Holiday Stress


December 16, 1996

Greensboro, NC: To ease future financial stress during the holidays, teach children sensible gift-giving traditions, says a cooperative extension specialist.

"Christmas is one of the most stressful times of the year," said Dr. Shirley Rouse, a 4-H and youth development specialist in North Carolina A&T's Cooperative Extension Program. "Often, people feel like they have to spend a lot of money on a gift to show their feelings, so not being able to buy expensive gifts can be frustrating and stressful."

Rouse suggests that "gifts from the heart" are often more appropriate than "gifts from the wallet," and that children can be taught this lesson at a young age. "Habits and holiday celebration traditions are established early in life. Adults can establish patterns for their children by enabling them to pursue creative activities which enhance self-esteem through achievement."

According to Rouse, giving skills, service or time is a practical alternative to purchasing gifts. "Children as young as five years old can make simple but meaningful gifts, like drawings for a parent's office," said Rouse.
Other creative gift ideas appropriate to age level include:

• (ages 5 to 8) a holiday scene sculpted from clay, cookies, and decorated cookie or popcorn tins
• (ages 9 to 12) simply sewn items such as belts, scarfs, neckties, pillows, potholders and aprons
• (ages 13 and over) leather crafts, more complex sewing products, or simple woodwork such as storage shelves or magazine racks.

Certificates of service are also dependent on age level. Rouse suggests:

• (younger children) pledging to pick up toys, bring in the newspaper, or supply the bathroom with simple necessities
• (older children) yardwork, washing cars, running errands, or volunteering to help younger siblings

Although it isn't traditionally considered a gift, with today's hectic schedules, time is often invaluable. Rouse recommends pledges of extra time, such as attending events in support of a sibling or friend, or participating with a sibling or friend in an activity of his or her choice.

"Each of these three gifts of love is inexpensive, promotes skill development, increases self-esteem, builds responsibility and promotes family interaction," said Rouse.

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For more information, please contact Dr. Shirley Rouse, NC A&T Cooperative Extension Program, (336) 334-7956.