Can it be a little less? Everything you want to know about the 4-gift rule for Sinterklaas

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Do you want to prevent an overabundance of gifts and should it all be a little less during the holidays? Then use the 4-gift rule.

It’s almost time: in three weeks Sinterklaas will arrive in the country and the children will be unstoppable. The anticipation has already started. The toy books are in the letterbox, the Sinterklaas films are showing in the cinema and children are already busy making wish lists. But no matter how nice it is to receive a bag full of Sinterklaas; children quickly lose the overview if they get so much at once. That’s why the 4-gift rule is a perfect alternative to those jam-packed bags.

4 gift rule

The 4-present rule has come over from America and is slowly making its way into the Netherlands. It means that you choose four gifts in a theme and that your child gets presents that really help them without being overstimulated by the amount that Santa will bring;

• Something they would like to have;
• Something they need;
• Something to wear;
• Something to read.

Something they would like to have

Choose something that is very high on the wish list. Something that your son or daughter will not stop talking about and that you think will be played with a lot. And yes, even if you as a parent don’t understand why this is going to be such a hit. Once they’ve made the wish list, ask what their absolute number one is. And take advantage of that.

Also read – ‘I’ve been saving for the holidays for months’ >

Something they need

Think things like a duvet cover and sneakers, but it could also be a new set of color plotters or, something bigger, a new bike.

Something to wear

This could be anything. From socks to pajamas and from a beautiful dress to a cool sweater of a favorite character. If you want to give a little more or your child could use something new, you can of course also make a complete set, from underwear to a nice coat.

Something to read

A book is always a good idea. A nice reading book, a book to read yourself or perhaps a subscription to a favorite magazine. If you really have enough books or prefer to get books from the library, you can still choose to give a game as a gift.

Between 100 and 150 euros in gifts

On average, parents spend between 100 and 150 euros per child on Sinterklaas gifts. With the above rule you can manage well and divide the budget over the four categories. There are also parents who add a fifth category here, that of a creative gift. And if you celebrate Sinterklaas more extensively and also want to do something at Christmas, the 4-gift rule is of course a great starting point.

Source: 24Baby, Lootjestrekkers.nl.

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