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Many parents are approaching consumer centers seeking advice on how to handle so-called Christmas protocol in these bad economic times. Psychologists and family relations advisers say children may require special attention.
For most families this year, the fact that there will be fewer presents under the tree is a decision that's already been made. It's not necessarily by choice, but by the financial mess the country finds itself in.
But family centers on university campuses, like the Family Life Building at Utah State University, say an austere Christmas may not be all that bad.
"We hope people will seek ideas on how to manage their money rather than seek more ways to get into more debt," said Dr. Thomas Lee, department head for USU's College of Education and Human Services.
Lee says with kids especially, talk to them honestly on their level. In letters to Santa or before they sit on his knee, let them know money is not only not so abundant with parents this year, but with Chris Kringle as well.
"Even Santa doesn't have as much money to buy the supplies he needs for the elves to make toys, then kids can understand that and accept that," Lee said.
Christmas is a child's lifetime fantasy. We don't want to let them down, but Lee says you don't have to. "Like the old Christmas song, ‘Choose for me, dear Santa Claus, what you think is best.' That would be a great approach to take with children too," he said.
Stories also help, like the kind we read every Christmas about times that were simpler. "The times we spend together. The things we do as a family. Finding something we can do for another family or another child that's in worse shape than ours is," Lee explained.
Maybe this is the year we won't need experts to get us through, if parents and children write their own memorable stories.
E-mail: eyeates@ksl.com
