We’re moving toward the end of Hannukah 2009 and so far so good. We had a great visit by the grand-parents to kick it off, maybe too many latkes, a few good Hannukah parties.
In an effort to play down the gifts a bit, we also have a “donation” night and a day where we volunteer somewhere.
Now that my two girls are five and eight, the refrain on getting a Nintendo DS is getting chronic. Seems like all of their friends have one, or more than one. Initially I figured it was just a way to veg-out and waste some time with electronic entertainment. My ten year old son reminded me that it didn’t sound much different than me sitting in front of the TV with the Xbox. Smart kid.
Would a DS take away from their drawing time, or their pretend play time, or their piano time?
Or would it be an opportunity to learn to budget their “screen” time, get their homework done before they played with it, and share?
We’re going with the latter – a DS that they can share, a few games, and a some guidelines. We’ll see how it goes.
Other big gifts this year? A puzzle of the map of the world, “Peanuts” Monopoly, Band Hero, Barbie Fun House, jewelry, tons of books, and flannel pajamas (for me).
Happy Hannukah!
Glad to hear we're not the only parents struggling with this decision. We have decided to cave, but balanced with other gifts (like a chess set). Strong boundaries will have to keep the DS in check (hopefully).
Posted by: Will Holmes | December 22, 2009 at 07:44 AM
a good gifts for this coming new year.
Posted by: depression medication | December 29, 2009 at 06:59 AM