Why I Won't Be Burning My Child's Gifts This Year

I keep seeing everyone post and share this terrible "Christmas Tip". It has to be one of the most absolutely disgusting ideas that I have seen. It's spreading like wildfire, quickly becoming one of the most reposted things I'm seeing on Facebook and other social websites.

Perhaps it's indicative of the type of person I keep as company. Or it's an insight into the younger generation's thought process. And to quickly address those that will claim this is "just an online joke" and that "I need to lighten up", you need to remember there are people out there that are genuinely thinking this is a good idea and we're encouraging these people to emotionally abuse their children.

Do you remember being 8 years old with Christmas jitters, unable to sleep and listening for reindeer hooves and jolly laughter? Christmas (and those presents) are really important to children We've taught them that it's the time of year where friends and family come together and exchange stories, gifts, and laughter. Asserting tyrannical rule by destroying their gifts in front of your children can be harmful and damaging. If you want to teach your child a REAL lesson for their behavior, then consider the following.

Teach them compassion by taking them to a soup kitchen to volunteer and showing them how to care for their fellow man. Encourage them to do extra chores or find odd jobs in their neighborhood with the idea that they should use that cash to adopt a child from the Salvation Army angel tree. Or using your own money, take the child shopping for some new toys and coats and drop them off together at any donation bin

If your child's behavior is so out of control that you're considering burning their presents, perhaps it is your own shortcomings as a parent coming to bear. There are some children out there that cannot (will not) behave despite the best parenting. For these, simply suspend Christmas and make the child earn their gifts back through good behavior, good grades, and extra chores. Teach them that actions have consequences, but that they can also earn your forgiveness.

For your child's sake, do not make them think they were going to get a gift and it was burnt because of their behavior. Instilling a sense of fear and betrayal will not foster a healthy relationship. Be a positive force in your child's life and show them that your love is unconditional. Remember, Christmas is about compassion, not fear.