As a parent, there’s an innate drive to shower our kids with everything under the sun. If we could, we would probably all buy our children the moon. But how would that benefit them? What life lessons would they learn from being given mountains of presents? Furthermore, children don’t want presents—well, they do—but there are far more important things you can give to them.
There are so many things that children want more than presents.
Children Want Presence
Intentional parents know that one of the main things that children want more than presents is your presence. Quality time with your kids is one of the most wonderful gifts you can give to them. Toys break. Clothes are outgrown. But that time you sat down with them and read an entire book series with them? Those memories will be treasured forever.
There’s no substitute for being there for your children. As much as you can, try to gift them with time, rather than presents.
Children Want Traditions
Remember all of those heartfelt traditions your parents got so excited about over the holidays? Everyone has at least one that they can think of off the top of their head. They’re some of the fondest moments for most people, which is why creating traditions for your family is one of the most precious gifts you could possibly give.
Like a timeless heirloom, those traditions will be passed from generation to generation, forever threading your family legacy together with strings of hope and joy.
Children Want Love
More than anything else, though, your children just want your unconditional love. Presents are lovely. Time is better. But love is what prevails above all else.
As a parent, it can be hard to accept everything that your child does. But does that ever mean you don’t love them? Absolutely not. The love of a parent should always be unconditional, and when you’re able to give that gift to your children, nothing else matters. Through that love, you can raise strong, independent, forward-thinking individuals who know how to love others deeply and pursue their dreams.
There is no greater present than that.
So true! Amazing post!
Great post – thanks!
Get post!! I love the advice!!!
Great advice! Thank you!
Great reminder! Thank you!
PRESENTS vs. PRESENCE – I see what you did there!
Hey brother- your thoughts are truth and you live them out! Thank you for taking the time to have a heartfelt talk with my daughter and loving on her. You are a great example of “Father Power”!
I love this, not talked about enough! This is so great!
Good stuff! I loved your book on parallelograms as well.
Great advice from great parents
Awesome advice
You guys live this life and truly represent it everyday!! Love you guys
Great piece. We have had this conversation about traditions at our house, I definitely think traditions help children feel secure. Thanks!
True story love you guys!
So good! Thank you for sharing this!
Thank you for being amazing examples of Present Parents. Your example is truly inspiring! <3
Very true! Thanks for the great article.
Yes!
I love this. Thanks for posting!
Great Post! Thanks for the insights.
Could not agree more.
Thank you for teaching us what intentional living is all about!