Hanukkah is the festival of lights in the Jewish religion. It celebrates the victory of a small group of warriors called the Maccabees over the Hellenists in the defense of the Temple. The miracle of Hanukkah is that the menorah (candelabra) stayed lit for eight days and nights even though there was only enough oil to keep it lit one day. In modern times, Hanukkah has become a great gift-giving festival for children and parents should not overindulge them.
Step 1
Have your children make a list of the gifts that they would most like to receive. This list cannot go more than five deep. This is not the list of presents they will get, just the ones they want. Make them supply a reason for each.
Step 2
Make your children pick out five toys or games they already have that they would like to give to underprivileged children. A holiday like Hanukkah is just not about receiving gifts. It is also about giving gifts. Your children will feel good about themselves with a decision to give some of their toys and games away.
Step 3
Have your children write a report or give a speech on why Hanukkah is important. If they are going to benefit from the holiday, they should at least know what it is about. Have them deliver the report or speech on the first night of Hanukkah.
Step 4
Talk to friends, relatives and others who might be inclined to give them gifts. Put a dollar limit on what is spent. They are your kids and while you love to see them happy, you do not want to see them spoiled.
