Tips for Dealing with Disappointed Kids on Christmas Morning

With all the expectation looming in the air over opening gifts on Christmas morning, you're hoping your children are satisfied with what they find under the tree. But what if all you see, instead, are disappointed faces? What should you do? Better yet, what can you do to prepare both your children as well as yourself if you know they may be less than thrilled over what Santa left for them. Here are a few suggestions to help you and your children cope with not finding the perfect gifts under the tree Christmas morning...

Prepare Your Children before Christmas

If you realize that what's on your children's Christmas list is unreasonable or not within your budget, sit down and talk to them. For example, say something such as, "I understand how much you want a puppy for Christmas. However, I'm afraid Santa can't come through with that type of gift. A puppy is a big responsibility and we're just aren't able to add a pet to the family right now. Is there something else that you'd like for Christmas that's almost as special as a puppy?

Explain About Safety Problems of Dangerous Toys

If your eleven-year-old son asks for a B-B gun and you have doubts about the safety of the toy, be honest with him.. Explain about the safety hazards of certain toys and how he needs to be mature enough to handle the responsibility of using them. If your child still whines about not getting a BB gun, then encourage him that if he proves himself within the next year being responsible, then maybe you'll reconsider. Stress how he needs to earn the privilege rather than just because he's growing older and all his friends have BB guns.

Show Concern Over Your Child's Disappointment

Don't shout, "Tough, that's life---Get over it!" When you first sense your children are upset that they didn't get those special gifts, look directly into their eyes and express how you're sorry they're disappointed. Then, tell them why you thought it wasn't a good idea that they get what they wanted. If they persist with bad behavior, then it's time to give them a choice---they either choose to have a good attitude and behave properly or they suffer consequences----even on Christmas morning.