The first week of January always arrives brimming with excitement. Christmas spirit still lingers in the air, homes prepare for the arrival of the Three Kings, and children experience these days with a mixture of nerves, wonder, and anticipation. However, this time of year also invites us to reflect on an often overlooked aspect: the adult responsibility involved in gift-giving.
In a world where consumption is skyrocketing and advertising directly appeals to children's desires, it's easy to fall into the "more is better" trap. But what impact does this have on children? What message are we sending when gifts become excessive or disproportionate?
Too many gifts: delight or overstimulation?
Receiving many gifts may seem, at first glance, like a positive experience. But several studies indicate that excess can generate unwanted effects.
One of the most cited studies is the one conducted by the University of Toledo (Ohio) (2018), which concluded that children play more creatively and sustainably when they have fewer toys available. With too many stimuli, play becomes superficial and scattered; with fewer, concentration, imagination, and the ability to explore increase.
Furthermore, research published in the Journal of Consumer Research has observed that overexposure to material goods can foster materialistic attitudes, lower frustration tolerance, and lower emotional well-being.
- Difficulty in valuing what they receive, because abundance dilutes meaning.
- Frustration and low tolerance for waiting, by becoming accustomed to immediate gratification.
- Emotional disconnection, since the focus shifts from the family bond to the material object.
- Sensory overload, especially in younger children, who may feel overwhelmed.
Giving gifts involves the ability to transmit values, accompany processes, and build memories.
Giving with awareness: an educational opportunity
The Three Kings' Day season is an ideal time to foster skills and values in children that will stay with them throughout their lives. Some key points for a thoughtful gift are:
1. Emotional quality over quantity
A single meaningful gift can have more impact than five unconnected ones. It's not the quantity that matters, but the meaning.
2. Gifts that encourage autonomy and creativity
Artistic materials, books, cooperative games, or experiences can stimulate skills and strengthen bonds.
3. Involving children in reflection
Talking to them about real desires, needs, and expectations helps them develop critical thinking and self-control.
4. Include non-material gifts
Shared time, family activities, or educational experiences can become unforgettable memories.
5. Coordination between separated families
In separation or divorce processes, coordination between parents is essential to avoid duplication, comparisons, or dynamics of emotional competition.
The role of families and professionals
At EIM, we want to remind everyone that emotional education is also built in moments like these. Adults are role models and points of reference; our consumption choices, how we manage our emotions, and our ability to set boundaries directly influence the well-being of children.
Giving with awareness doesn't diminish the magic, but rather adds meaning. It means teaching that the joy doesn't depend on the number of gifts, but on love, presence, and companionship.
In this week leading up to Three Kings Day, we invite you to look beyond the wrapping paper. Ask yourself what message you want to convey and what experience you want the children around you to have.
Because in the end, what they will remember is not what was under the tree, but how they felt supported in those moments.
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