- Decide what you have to spend. Make a list and be realistic. Paying in cash may help you keep control.
- Manage expectations early. If things are tight, don’t be afraid to say so to family members. They are probably in the same boat.
- Suggest that relatives pool expenses to buy children gifts they want instead of overindulging them individually.
- Substitute expensive decorations with things like paper chains and cookies that add to the fun without costing much.
- Never take out a Christmas loan. The consequences could be disastrous in terms of family debt.
- Give homemade gifts, such as vouchers for services like ironing and babysitting or cookies and fudge.
- Don’t feel guilty if you can’t afford the latest present for your children. You can’t buy love, and it lasts longer in the memory than any toy.
- Avoid the trap of reciprocal gift-giving and buying out of obligation.
- Don’t overspend in the January sales, no matter how good a bargain you might see. Make a budget and stick with it. If possible, leave the credit cards at home.
- Enjoy low-cost entertainment like lights in town, family board games and holiday programs at churches and schools.
Source: Christians Against Poverty/ABP
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