Parenting Tips
By Myrna B. Shure, Ph.D
For the WHYY Children's Service

I Want, But Too Expensive

Is your child asking for gifts that are too expensive?

Here's Karla's mom, talking to her about this.

Karla: I need in-line skates this year.

Mom: You already asked for a new bike and new skis.

Karla: Mom, all the other kids are getting in-line skates too.

Mom: If you don't stop pestering me, I won't buy you anything.

How is Karla feeling now? Is this what Mom really wanted?

Mom tried this again - a different way - a problem solving way.

Mom: I really can't afford to buy you all three things you want. You can choose one of those things, and two little things.

Karla: I really want the skates.

Mom: You really thought about it. I'm proud of you.

Mom did throw in a couple of surprise extras. But she helped her child make a decision important to her - and not just toss aside one gift to open next.

Kids who can solve problems important to them when they're little will be able to solve problems important to them when they're big.