If you have teenagers then you have probably dealt with the issue of “greediness” or “selfishness” during the Holidays. When my kids were younger, and I wasn’t a Christian, I thought my kids “needed” to have a certain number of presents under the tree. I was under the impression and influence of our society’s idea that Christmas was about giving and getting gifts.  I also made sure my 4 kids had the exact same number of gifts to open. Plus, to be honest, I loved the way the tree looked when it was brimming with all the beautifully wrapped gifts.

Now that I am a Christian and understand the true meaning of Christmas, I am trying to instill that in my teens. This Christmas we are going to do things much differently in the past; not only for spiritual reasons, but also for financial reasons.  There is no reason why we can’t teach our kids, no matter what age they are, the true meaning of Christmas and how to keep Christ in Christmas. One of the ways I’m going to do this is by giving them only 3 gifts each. Three represents Jesus in so many ways, like the trinity, the gifts of the three wisemen and that Jesus rose on the third day.

I’m also going to have my kids create coupons and certificates offering acts of service or kindness. I will have them use their God-given artistic abilities to draw and create nice cards and envelopes to give. I, on the other hand, will use my God-given computer skills to create my cards, coupons and certificates! J

If you think you’re going to have a difficult time passing these ideas on to your teen or pre-teen, just give it a shot.  Our kids know our financial situation, know we are on a budget and are trying to get out of debt. When I told my 16 year old daughter that she may be getting an iTunes gift card, socks and underwear, she was totally fine with it.  She accepted it and understood. I also explained that we can make gifts and give gifts of service to our loved ones, and she already started naming some things she is going to do for others.

These are some ideas you can use in your home too. Not only will it save you money, but it will also help your teen learn what Christmas is all about-Jesus and giving from our heart.