The Christmas season means decorations, tasty treats, family celebrations, and gift giving…. and giving and giving. It seems that every year we lose some of the true meaning of Christmas because of the excess of toys that enter my home. Two years ago, when the season came to a close I found myself yearning for a simpler Christmas, one without the toy overload. I wanted my children to still receive gifts that they wanted and for us to find joy in giving those wish list items without overdoing it. Here are some strategies I’ve found to keep the Christmas cheer without fear of toy overload.

1. The four-gift philosophy

This gift-giving philosophy goes like this “Something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read.” This idea gives kids a variety of gifts without going overboard. It’s practical, affordable, and fun. Best of all it makes shopping easier, without the risk of impulse buying. Check out this infographic on holiday impulse buying for better help avoiding this trap.

2. Give an experience

As pointed out on Wellness Mama, only 3% of the world’s children live in the US, but they own 40+% of the world’s toys. Instead of spending a lot of money on toys that may or may not get played with, consider giving the gift of an experience. Ideas may include a membership to a local attraction like a zoo or children’s museum, classes that the child would enjoy (dance, art, music, etc), tickets to a show, movie passes, gift cards, a special night on the town, or even a vacation. This gift idea is great because it can be given to the entire family and is sure to create memories that last longer than an easily outgrown toy or novelty.

3. A family gift

Try giving a gift the entire family can enjoy. Some ideas could include movies, books, board games, electronics, or a swing set. Individual gifts that go along with the family gift could make it more personal. For example, if the family gift is a new video game system, each child might receive a game of interest to them to go along with it. The benefit to this type of gift is it encourages quality family time.

4. A heartfelt gift

These types of gifts are special because they are so personal. One Christmas my grandma made all of her children and grandchildren a special recipe book that included family recipes that had been passed down for generations. It was a gift that cost little but was priceless to the recipient. These gifts require more time than money, but will keep giving for many years. Of course, one of the most heartfelt gifts you can give this season is the gift of time.

5. One big gift

For some kids there is one large, costly gift that they have on their list. Perhaps they want it more than anything else. Consider getting each child the one larger gift they really want and forgo all the smaller extra gifts. Buying one valuable gift can be a good lesson in understanding the costs of items.

During the holidays, it’s so easy to shower those we love with gifts; but when January comes around, buyer’s remorse often sets in. These strategies will not only reduce the excess toys but will also help your children appreciate the gifts they do receive while enjoying the true reason for Christmas.

If you still find yourself overwhelmed with toy overload after the holidays, try a toy rotation to declutter. It’s easy, and it will ensure that none of your children’s toys go to waste.