by Krystle Hernandez

Created on: February 09, 2009

Your child's birthday is coming up and whether you have the money or not, it is important to take moments like these to teach your children certain values that you would like for them to hold on to as they grow up. It is extremely significant to teach our children the value of money, the importance of family, and the responsibility that comes with age.

While many parents want to indulge their children, spoiling kids can have serious repercussions later in life. Children who grow up receiving every material item that they desire may often feel a sense of entitlement and may ultimately become extremely materialistic, often relying on the receipt of material items in order to feel loved. While a little indulgence is absolutely fine, it is important that our children recognize the value of moderation.

For many children, birthdays become associated with elaborate parties and tons of presents that may often go unappreciated and eventually discarded. If you want to honor, but not indulge, your child on his or her birthday, take a look at the following suggestions. These tips may help your child develop a sense about the significance of sacrifices his or her family makes in order to celebrate them

Limit presents.
One of the traditional aspects of celebrating a birthday is receiving presents. However, many families may not have the financial resources available to them to provide a plethora of gifts for their children. If friends and family members offer your child money as a present, sit down with your child and develop a plan. Figure out what percentage of the total amount they receive can be spent on personal items that your child desires and did not receive for their birthday. Teach them the importance of saving money for the future by opening up a savings account and encouraging them to save a percentage of the money they receive as gifts. If your family can afford it, suggest that your child donate a percentage to a local charity of their choice. Allow them to do some research concerning local charities and suggest that they volunteer for the charity in addition to their financial contributions. This gesture will not only show your child that life is not all about money, it will (hopefully) teach them that it is important to help others in need when we can.

Another great way to limit presents is to suggest that family and friends purchase educational gifts for your child. Rather than spending a great deal of money on material items such as toys, ask your relatives

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