Gift giving dilemma

[HerbErtlinger]

Hi,

I think I'm probably over thinking this so just wanted some opinions.

We have DSS(13) for Christmas eve and Christmas morning this year along with DD(11) and DS(4). DSS is getting a very expensive laptop for his main present and DD is getting a Nintendo switch (DS is getting toys and I'm not worried about the logistics of his). Both of the older kids have several smaller gifts to open but as the laptop is a joint gift from DP and DSS mum, he will be given it when he's dropped off at his mum's house at midday so they can give it to him together which is great.

My question is, should I hold back the switch and give it to DD in the afternoon instead of in the morning? I don't want DSS to see that he just has the smaller gifts to open and she has the switch on top and spend the morning wondering why they were so unequal and feel left out but I'm also worried he will feel left out if we waited for him to go home before she got extra presents (hence the overthinking, navigating the dynamics of a blended family is tough and I don't want anyone to feel left out or upset)

I know it's not a big deal in the scheme of things but wondered what you would do?

He’s 13. Just tell him - well, his dad tells him - that his main present will be in the afternoon and he just has smaller bits in the morning.

Do stockings in the morning, and big presents in the afternoon when DSS is at his mum’s. Could even do big presents on FaceTime or similar?

He is 13 she's 11. Tell them DSS I'd getting a joint big gift later.

Job done

Dss isn't in a grump
Dd doesn't feel guilty /unable to enjoy switch

I think it’s lovely that you’re thinking about this. Personally I’d tell him he’s getting his main present at lunch time but phrase it in a nice way (like your mum and dad are so excited to see you open your present!).

Otherwise I think your daughter might be a bit confused, or even unsure whether she should feel guilty about her gift as it’s been hidden from her stepbrother.

Have a great Christmas!

Thank you. I'm definitely over thinking it all.

My 12 year old would definitely understand that he was getting an expensive present but later on in the same circumstances I’m sure. Has he asked for a computer?

What about a wrapped up "present loading" type message to unwrap? Or a letter from Santa saying its at his Mums etc.