A Mum’s Guide to Raising Grateful, Money-Smart Kids This Christmas

Christmas is one of the most magical, and overwhelming, times of the year for families. Between gifts, events, social pressure and the sheer excitement of it all, it’s easy for kids to slip into “more, more, more” mode. But Christmas is also one of the best opportunities to teach gratitude, generosity, and meaningful money habits.

Here’s how to use the season to build lifelong skills, without losing the joy of Christmas.

1. Make Gratitude the Heart of Christmas

Kids naturally get swept up in the excitement of presents, but we can gently bring balance by connecting them to gratitude. Before any gift opening, try a simple family moment:
                 “What are three things you’re grateful for from this year?”
It’s grounding, calming, and sets the tone for mindful receiving.

You can also encourage kids to write thank you notes or voice messages to family who give them gifts. Gratitude builds emotional intelligence - one of the best lifelong financial traits.

2. Involve Kids in Thoughtful Gift-Giving

Children learn so much from planning and giving. Let them choose a small gift for a sibling, relative, or friend. Give them a set amount and guide them to compare options, think about what the person would love, and stay within budget. 

This teaches empathy, intentional spending, and the joy of giving. My girls love giving gifts to others! But sometimes I wonder if it's also because they love to unwrap everyones gifts...lol.

3. Bring Kids Into Budget Conversations

Christmas is expensive and hiding that from kids doesn’t serve them. Instead, bring them into small, age-appropriate decisions:

• “We have $30 for decorations. Which ones should we choose?”

• “Let’s plan our Christmas baking budget together.”

These conversations normalise money as something we plan, not something that controls us.

4. Create a Family Giving Tradition

Christmas is a beautiful time to introduce giving in ways kids can understand. Try:

• Donating a toy

• Adding coins to a giving jar

• Picking a charity together (my girls and I look at "Share The Dignity" at this time of year)

It builds generosity and perspective.

5. Set Boundaries With Love

Boundaries create safety. Kids don’t need everything. They need clarity. A simple phrase like:
                  “We’re choosing meaningful gifts this year, not lots of gifts.”
Helps them understand your values without feeling restricted.

The Big Picture

Raising money smart kids isn’t about the perfect Christmas. It’s about small, intentional moments that build confidence, gratitude and awareness. When you weave these habits into the season, your kids learn lessons that last long after the wrapping paper is gone.

If you want to bring more of these skills into your home in 2026, my course MoneyWise Kids: Foundation Mini Course will guide you step-by-step.