Four Simple Rules to Simplifying Gift Giving this Holiday Season

This year, we are keeping Christmas simple. Gone are the days of cultivating long lists, googling items you’ve never heard of, and feeling like it is a season of stress rather than a season of giving, loving, and reflecting. As my mom and I were wandering through the Christmas aisles of Targeè (fancy man’s Target), we thought that there must be a way to make Christmas more meaningful. A lightbulb went off for my mom, and she remembered hearing about a woman who created the concept of “Want, Need, Wear, Read.” YES. This is perfect!

Jordan Harrell and ingenious Mama from Texas started using her guide of buying each person in her family something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. While initially, it may sound like, “wow, well that’s only 4 gifts,” I believe that using this concept will allow you to spend more time with your family, while simultaneously teaching your children gratitude. Sometimes, it seems like Christmas is all about “keeping up with the Joneses,” and unfortunately, I think I have fallen into the trap. This can become a fun tradition in your family, and it really encourages kids (heck, parents too!), to think about what they would love to receive. Below are some gift ideas that are all under $20!

1. Outdoor Hammock
2. Headphones
3. Lenses for iPhones
4. Shave Kit
5. Mascarade Card Game

1. Wine Tumbler
2. Camping Cookware
3. Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
4. Canvas Crossbody Bag
5. Code Names Game.

1. Suspicion Board Game
2. Brain Builders Game
3. Magic Science Kit
4. Frisbee
5. STEM Robot

1. Stacking Cups
2. Activity Gym
3. Teething Pacifier Holders
4. Bandana Bibs
5. Sriracha Sippy Cup

Needs for each family member can include, but certainly, are not limited to socks, underwear, a new toothbrush, work clothes, suitcase, backpack, bedding, kitchen utensils, etc.!

1. Gap Crewneck Sweater
2. Benjamin Boots
3. Rucking Half-Zip
4. Cotton Chinos

1. Wool Crewneck Sweater
2. Braid Cut Boots
3. Fleece Quarter Zip
4. Curvy Straight Leg Jeans

1. Boys’ Thermal Sweatshirt
2. Western Ankle Boots
3. Boys’ Space Pajamas
4. Girls’ Moto Jeans

1. Romper Set
2. Boys’ Lion Set
3. Girls’ Floral Sherpa Set
4. Baby’s Sleep N’ Play

“A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies . . . The man who never reads lives only one.” – George R.R. Martin

As a mom and a teacher, I know the importance of reading! Here are some of my favorite must-reads.

1. Paddle Your Own Canoe
2. Fahrenheit 451
3. In Cold Blood

1. Every Day
2. I Am Malala
3. Wonder

1. The Day the Crayons Quit
2. The Invention of Hugo Cabaret
3. The Very Hungry Caterpillar
4. Love You Forever

Be brave, and give the “Want, Need, Wear, Read,” gift-giving method a try. If nothing else, you will check off so much from your to-do list, and you will be able to spend more quality time with the people you love.