How can I change the focus of the holidays away from just gifts?


One way to take the focus off of gifts during the holiday season is to reach out to others in need. You can do this by taking your child to visit a nursing home, or by providing meals for families who might otherwise not be able to afford them. Have your child go shopping with you and choose a toy to donate. Take this opportunity to talk to your child about the difference between things we want and things we need. Not only does this teach your child the importance of helping others, it is a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together as a family and help your child discover a sense of compassion.

Jennie Ito, Ph.D.

Child Development Expert

Jennie Ito is a mother of two and a child development consultant who specializes in children’s play and toys. Before becoming a consultant for LeapFrog, she was an intern at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC, and later worked as a content expert for the Association of Children’s Museum’s “Playing for Keeps” Play Initiative. Jennie earned her doctorate degree in developmental psychology at Queen’s University in Ontario, Canada.