2 of 20

Write now Article Tools

We all want to say no, when it's right to say no. But, when our hearts are beating so consistently and powerfully for the little face longing for the item they've seen flashing across the television, hanging on fast food posters, billboards, t-shirts and everywhere else, it's hard to resist. The Advertisers know their market and their subject. They have the entire process down to a science, making it hard on the parents part to resist, and near impossible on the child's.

Taking a firm unrelenting stand against purchasing any and all superfluous items is one way to go. This you can do by saying 'no' before the child gets passed, "Can I....?" Then, if the request ends up referring to a toy, you're set, you already said no. Also, since you hadn't heard the whole question, you're safely allowed to change your tune if it was go to the bathroom.

Another approach is to explain economics, ethical standards, financial responsibility, social dependency's and the character building effects of dealing with disappointment to the child. If they are under 10 yrs old, it will probably be wasted effort, they may or may not get it, but regardless they won't care. If they're over 10, they'll get it alright, and then they still won't care.

One fact is for sure, a child doesn't have to like it to live with it. Saying 'no' for which ever reason is appropriate really should suffice. Usually, that reason revolves around the fact that it isn't a need, or even close to one. If that is the case, perhaps teaching them a lesson while they are being told 'no' is the best idea. There is a lesson available to combat the very thing that the advertisers utilize and prey on, which is the unavoidable proclivity humans have toward impulse buying.

When the child approaches with the request, instead of saying 'no', simply acknowledge their desire. This tells the child that you recognize their hopes and dreams as valid and worthy of fulfilling. Then supply the boundary. Briefly explain that this isn't the right time to buy more things. BUT when their birthday arrives, or Christmas, or pick a holiday, THEN, if they still want it they can have it. When the next occasion occurs, (the next day, no doubt) repeat the validation and then suggest that if they'd rather have that item as their special day choice, then that would be fine.

Several things will be accomplished by using this method. Overall the desire is recognized, reinforcing self-worth while still learning the value of self control and patience. It will give them something to contemplate between now and then, teaching them to weigh their wants and needs in order to set priorities. More times than not, when that day comes, the item will have changed ten times over which will teach them that they really didn't need that 'thing' nearly as much as they thought. In the end, they will receive the best of their options and perhaps even appreciate the value of having it.

Learn more about this author, Dana Toutloff.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to resist advertising pressure to buy more toys for your child?
We want to hear your view. Write now!