My children get one big gift a year period. They get to choose if it’s for their birthday or Channukah. The other occaiaions, they get smaller gifts (i.e. in the $20.00 – $25.00 price range) so as to not recieve nothing when their siblings are getting something. This year my oldest son asked for an Ipod for his birthday. Since he had a great year in school, we agreed to get it for him. For Chanukah, he’s getting a small Lego set. My daughter wants a new doll house for Channukah. For her birthday, she’ll get something small. Afikoman presents are usually something bigger for the whole family. Last year, we got a trampoline. This way I hope to give my kids some treats (which they deserve as they are, for the most part wonderful children who do well in school and behave nicely), but not serve them the world on a silver platter. Thank G-d my wife and I can afford to live this way, so long as we’re careful. Grandparents, however mess the whole thing up as they spoil my kids rotten. It’s a constant struggle to keep them in check. But I prefer that to parsimonious grandparents.
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