Six things every kids needs, and the one they don't...

Hello there friend! Long time, no blog! Just to let you know what has been going on in my little world... I am working AND going to school as well. I am completing my reading endorsement and am taking two classes - yep, two classes!! Ugh!! I am being crushed by the work load! I came home from work, spent about a half hour with the kids, worked on one paper, ate dinner with the family (thanks honey), and then spent three more hours working on another paper. So, if you have wondered where I have been, now you know!!

As for today's blog, we are finally to the end of our series Six Things Every Kid Needs, And The One They Don't. These are based on an article I read in the the April 17, 2010 Woman's Day magazine. If you missed the other three blogs on the six things every kids needs, you can check here, here, or here.

I think you will like the one you don't. I know I do!!

and the one they don't...
Kids do not need any more TOYS! Too many toys teach kids to always look to material things to entertain themselves. When kids are dependent on toys to entertain themselves, they are never satisfied and are always looking to see what you are buying them next. The bigger picture - kids that are never satisfied and always looking for the next big thing grow up to become adults that are never satisfied and always looking for the next big thing.

It is easy to substitute toys for affection and attention because it takes only a little time to buy your child a toy, but much more time to spend an afternoon together doing something fun. Ultimately, it’s time spent together that will lead to happier kids and happier families.

A few suggestions:

1) Save gift-giving for birthdays and Christmas only. This will teach children learn to wait for what they want.

2) Limit gifts at birthdays and Christmas to a few. This will encourage children to focus on what they really want.

3) Focus on 'free' gifts, such as watching a family video, an outdoor activity such as baking, biking, hiking, or building something together.

So there you have it... six things every kids needs and the one they don't.

Your Girlfriend,
Michelle