The holidays are a time of joy and giving, a time for love and family. Â Unfortunately, however, for elementary age children, the holidays can also be a time of greed. Â If parents are not careful, children this age can succumb to the mantra, “I want more!” Â We’ve all seen it before. Â There’s the child who opens gifts so fast that he or she doesn’t even know what’s inside the package. Â All that’s important…another gift! Â As the pile of torn wrapping paper and bows grows, so does the need for just one more present.
Don’t let this happen to your elementary age child. Â Take a few simple steps to keep greed under control. Â If you do, your child will be happier in the long run.
First, don’t make the gift opening time the absolute center of a holiday celebration.  There are many traditions that can be highlighted, including worship services, the singing of songs, holiday baking, and tree decorating.  I will concede that present opening will be one of a child’s favorite times, but don’t make it the ultimate goal of a  celebration.
Next, limit the amount of presents your child receives. Â It seems to follow that if you love your child, you will buy him as many presents as you can possibly afford; however, this argument is false. Â Remember, each gift’s specialness will be diluted if a child becomes too overwhelmed with piles of presents. Â This goes for grandma and grandpa as well!
Finally, be sure to teach a child that the saying, “it is better to give than receive” still rings true. Â Make it a point to give gifts to those who are less fortunate. Â You can donate gifts to the local domestic violence shelter, a soup kitchen, a community center, or even a homeless shelter. Â Have your child help you to pick out the gifts, help wrap the gifts, and help deliver the gifts. Â Children who have been exposed to this type of activity will certainly appreciate their own presents much more.
In essence, a greedy child is one who will have trouble adjusting to the realities of life.  I’ve known many spoiled children who have had a terrible shock when they reached their 20’s.  Many even went into states of depression when they learned that what they want has a price tag – hard work.  Help your own child make this transition easier by keeping greed under control each holiday season.