Raising your kids to be less materialistic is a great way to instill values in them. This way, they will learn to appreciate others, the value of new experiences, and the intrinsic value of self. While raising a child to be less materialistic is not an easy task, there are many ways to do it.
Giving Away Old Toys
Giving away old toys is a good way to encourage your kids to be less materialistic. It can also help them learn empathy and generosity. You can also encourage them to give away their old toys to charities.
It has been found that materialistic behavior is correlated to the level of fulfillment of a person’s needs. Individuals who feel insecure often seek out material goods in order to feel secure. Likewise, children of relatively poor families are more likely to be materialistic than those of rich families. In addition, children raised by emotionally distant mothers are more likely to be materialistic.
Teaching Children About Money
One of the best ways to teach children about money is by spending time discussing it with them. This way, your children will learn about expenses, wants, and needs. They will also learn how to recognize advertisements and understand the difference between needs and wants. This will help them become less materialistic and appreciate the things they have.
Another great way to teach children about money is by letting them spend their own money. By having them pay for things they want, they will learn about the difference between price and value.
Reminding Them of Their Own Blessings
One of the best ways to raise children as less materialistic is to practice gratitude. Make it a part of your daily prayer time or family conversation. You can help your children become less materialistic by introducing them to charity projects. Doing charity work with your children teaches them to appreciate all things and shows them compassion for people in need. Other activities you can do with your children include volunteering at a food bank or a homeless shelter.
Delayed Gratification
One of the best ways to teach your kids the value of delayed gratification is to give them an allowance. If your child constantly asks for something, giving them a small amount of money will help them learn the concept. You can also use simple activities like baking and gardening to instill delayed gratification. Baking and gardening take time and patience, and young toddlers will enjoy the process of mixing ingredients and waiting for them to bake.
Teaching your kids the value of delayed gratification is easier said than done. The concept of delayed gratification is linked to self-control and is a key part of developing a child’s emotional health.
Investing in Books
Investing in books is a wise investment for your children. Instead of buying them glittery clothes and the latest gadgets, you can give them books to read that will last a lifetime. Books also provide wisdom for your kids that will help them in the future. Aside from their educational value, books can sway your kids away from materialistic habits.
