Encourage your kids to make a wish list. Every time they see a toy they want on TV or in a magazine, remind them to add to the wish list. Emphasize that this is a WISH list - not a demand list. When friends or relatives ask what your kids want, you can offer some suggestions. Also ask these people to give you a heads up on their choices to avoid duplicates, if they don't mind. I suggest keeping the lists handy-like on the fridge!
I used this idea with my children, with an added "goodie" when they got older. To hone their thinking and persuasive writing skills, they wrote them in the form of a proposal: What I Want, Why I Want It, My Responsibilities Regarding This Gift Will Be, etc. And by older, I'm talking 2nd or 3rd grade!
This is a great idea which I also use with my family and friends. Very often they do not know what to buy for children, so it helps get them thinking of potential gifts
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