Bermuda Parent Bermuda Parent Winter 2013 | Page 37

Keep it Simple Take a moment to trim the list of people that you are shopping for. In our home we buy one gift for each person. If you have a large or extended family, see if others will agree to buying presents just for the children, setting a present price limit or doing a gift exchange. Set a Budget Setting a budget is essential to keeping the holidays merry and sticking to the financial plan is just as important. Once you figure out your total spending limit, take your shortened list and determine how much money you will spend on each person. To avoid the temptation of overspending, I’ve learned to leave my debit card in the car and only Christmas shop with my allotted cash. If you lack self-control, give the card to someone that you trust and have them check your receipt when you take back your card. Plan Ahead If you are intent on getting pricey gifts consider spreading your Christmas shopping over several months. One year, I started buying presents in Janu- ary and was finished by September. I was able to take advantage of count- less sales and skip the crowded stores. A better option for some is to set up a short-term CD and take out the spend- ing money just in time for the holidays next year. you give them less—your child will be okay. The most important thing that you can give your child is to value family and friendships. And that is perfectly okay, it’s actually great! Lynniece Nisbett Garnett has two daughters Lynnae and Kya Lynn. This Christmas they are looking forward to spending time together with their extended family! It’s Okay It’s perfectly normal for a parent to want to fulfill the wishes of their child. Most youngsters’ want to have what their friends want—and we want to see excitement on our child’s face and hear their joy from receiving that perfect gift. The reality is that some years you’ll have less than a shoe string budget and that is okay. You are not worth less because Great Value and Affordable Prices Every Day Washington Mall, Hamilton Open 9 to 6 Open late Harbour Nights Phone: 292-1080 10 Ways to Save Money During Christmas 1 Leave the plastic alone. Charging presents increases your debt and headaches. 2 Look for ways to earn extra cash that can be used just for the holidays. 3 Turn brown paper bags inside-out and use markers, glitter, stickers, and ribbon to create inexpensive wrapping paper. 4 Simmer spice tree leaves (found throughout Ber- muda) and vanilla essence to produce a wonderful inexpensive home fragrance. 5 Have older children price out their Christmas wish list. 6 Include essential items like pajamas, toothbrushes and underclothing in your gift giving. 7 Use your talent or special skill to create homemade presents. 8 Buy an artificial Christmas tree, it saves money over time. 9 Shop for items at second-hand stores and websites, many have new items. 10 Exchange Christmas decorations with a friend to get a new look. Trusted globally | Focused locally | Responding impartially Invest in yourself to help your community Would you know what to do in an emergency situation? Are you or your caregivers certified? Are you between the ages of 12 - 16 and want to feel confident as a babysitter? Are YOU ready? Bermuda Red Cross offers CPR, First Aid, AED and Babysitting training. Bermuda Red Cross Charleswood, 9 Berry Hill Road Paget, DV 03 Bermuda T 441 236 8253 ext. 222 F 441 236 8267 E [email protected] Sponsored by www.bermudaredcross.com www.bermudaparentmagazine.com 35