The Five Gifts of Christmas
Do you know about the 5-gift rule? It’s a tradition of giving your little ones five simple gifts on Christmas morning – something they want, something they need, something to wear, something to read, and then one special, magical gift. The 5-gift rule is a wonderful way to keep holiday spending under control, and to remind us all that the simplest of gifts are often the ones that bring the giver and receiver pure joy.
In the “something they want” category, you might pick up that favourite Barbie, Lego set or craft kit they’ve been eyeing. The “something they need” category might include underwear and socks (at least be sure it has their favourite character on it!), cozy hats or mitts, or fun sheets for their bed. The “something to wear” category is self-explanatory – maybe PJs or slippers, a new coat, or the coolest basketball shoes. Under “something to read”, may I suggest Red is Best for the littles and Frindle for the school-agers – two classics! Lastly, the final gift should be something magical – an unexpected surprise that makes them jump for joy. This can be something lovingly handmade, something they didn’t even know they wanted, or an experience.
You can also use the 5-gift rule when reading this month’s issue. Here are five simple yet glorious gifts we’re giving you, our readers, this month:
Something you want: You’ll want the recipe for Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates (page 20). This is the appetizer you have to take to that holiday potluck!
Something you need: You need to know about food waste on page 6. Did you know you can save the environment AND save $600 – $1100 per year?
Something to wear: Find instructions for making a beautiful Kwanzaa necklace on our Events page!
Something to read: Turn to page 17 to read all about managing the holidays with a wee bit of planning (financial planning, that is!)
Plus one special, magical gift: Our special gift to you this month is a contest! In fact, two contests! Don’t miss our 12+ Days of Holiday Giveaways on our social media pages to win glorious prizes. Plus, be sure to enter your little one in our 17th annual Captured Moments photo contest from Dec. 5 – Jan. 5 for a chance to see them on one of our covers.
From all of us here at The Mom & Caregiver, we wish you the very best kind of holiday – not one filled with stacks of extravagant gifts, but one filled with memories, laughs, family and friends.
Sabina Manji, a lifelong Londoner, is an irrepressible entrepreneur, mother of a wonderful son, and also a committed volunteer.
