Spend with Love

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Awhile back I came across an article on how to fulfill your kid's needs without spoiling them.  I couldn't really recall where I read the article but I remember the tips.  So I thought I'd rewrite it and share them with you as the tips are very very helpful for parents like us.  

As parents, we would love to give as best we could to our child(ren).  However, for those who have the resources to provide for their children, it's important that they provide wisely.  Here are the things to look out for before we buy too many and spoil our kids with it:

1.  If they don't need it, don't buy it!
As much as we want to provide the best for our child, buying a piece of special designer clothing or expensive piece of electronic items may not be a wise choice.  A kid doesn't care if it's expensive as long as it works.  There's nothing more that a kid wants than being normal and just like any other kids in her/his class.  As the kid grows older, teach them that they need to earn it before they can buy anything.  This can be taught by giving them allowance, or make them work for it.  It teaches them the concept that money has to be earned, they just don't fall from a tree.

2.  Teach children the opportunities to make a contribution.
This is good to show them that we live in a society where there are the lucky ones and unlucky ones.  It teaches them how to value what s/he has and share them with those who aren't as lucky as they are.

3.  Provide opportunities to experience lots of different types of people.  
This will let them practice to acquire skills to fit in.  

4.  Give your time more than your checkbook.  
Never replace your way of showing love to your child by the value of money.  Children crave the attention from their parents, and giving them gifts or something bought at the store would never replace the real attention of love from their parents.  Spend your time with them, not your money.