Gransnet forums

Christmas

Only buying for children this year

(5 Posts)
Ziplok Sun 01-Nov-26 13:10:27

We stopped buying for most of the family a few years ago. I don’t know if they liked it or not, but we said it was becoming too expensive and too difficult (just what do people want/like/need), and what can be bought that’s worth having for less than £20 these days, unless you hunt around the charity shops, which I tend not to? The family is continuing to grow, so the present buying had to stop.
We also stressed that we didn’t want anything either, but one or two ignore this and buy anyway, but that is their choice, we don’t expect it.

Davida1968 Sun 01-Nov-26 11:58:57

Good idea! We do something similar but usually do small gifts for adults.(And I mean small - cost wise!). Often something from a charity shop; such as a scarf.

Flippinheck Sun 01-Nov-26 09:33:21

I think this is an excellent idea. My parents did this when the children reached 16 (generally the age they left school and went out to work).
Christmas almost bankrupts me each year. Unfortunately the adults would be dreadfully hurt. I don’t think any of them (they are all well off) realise just how tight my finances are now I’m retired.

Humbertbear Sun 01-Nov-26 08:31:40

We have stopped all presents for adults and the GC receive money.

Pleasebenice Sun 01-Nov-26 07:45:20

I have 4 children, 9 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. We agreed to only gift Christmas gifts to under 18s. Adults get a nice birthday gift but that list, plus partners, got too long for Christmas. I buy one lovely Christmas gift for myself! It is always lovely and just the treat I wanted.