Christmas presents for kids, and the FOGIW

[OctoblocksAssemble]

That's Fear Of Getting It Wrong. It is not catchy 😆

Dh is of the opinion that the kids do not need piles of presents, and he's got a point. Generally with my 2, the more they have, the less attention any of it will get. So I agree in principle, but I find it so hard to stick to 2-3 presents out of the long list of coveted items, because it feels like each needs to be a hit when it's only that number? And you can never really be sure in advance which of the things they want will actually be enjoyed in practice. It's not always the case that the most wanted gift is the most played with. Then throw in things like prime day and black friday making it economical to shop in advance, and I get weeks of wondering if I made the right call, and trying not to buy a ton of extras. Also the house is pretty cluttered already, I really don't want to make it worse than I need to.
Anyone else in the same boat?

One kid already has 6 things, plus Stocking, so I'm already at double the intended amount. The other is on 5, but I do need them to have equal numbers.
I'm considering leaving the slime kits for boxing day, just so I don't have to deal with slime on Christmas 😅

No. DS makes a 'wish' list, we pick things off it within our budget, throw in some sweets/chocs and smellies.
He doesn't get gifts from anyone else.
We don't randomly buy things on black Friday/cyber Monday just because they're discounted. If we're looking for, eg PS4 controllers, then we'll keep our eyes out for discounts, otherwise we steer clear.
DS has never been fussed about the size of the pile under the tree.

I do big piles but they’re not all toys
So far my 3 year old is getting:
5 toys
2 colour/number sorting toys
2 books
2 sensory toys/a set of shower gels and stuff to play with in the bath
2 t-shirts
Trainers
A jigsaw
LUSH shower gel
A sticker book
7 sweets
Flying Tiger Surprise Bag
6 crafts and playdough
A blanket

Christ, there is far too much to think about isn't there!! Same number of gifts, same amount of money, similar range of items! 🤯 Always worry I've got it wrong, then panic buy loads more!! My 2 are rubbish, in that they don't ask for anything at all and state there is nothing they want!! So far one has said a pair of flared leggings and the other has suggested tipped as she needs it for school....
Dd1 is getting a new phone and some more expensive make up bits, but it looks rubbish compared to dd2s pile, but dd2s isn't nearly as expensive!!

Massively overthinking it though as they will both be more than happy on Christmas day! Must resist panic buying now.....

@Dinodrivingacar so glad I'm not the only one who gets tangled up in all this! Yes, keeping things equal when kids are at different stages is tough. I've warned my eldest that the things she wants won't be as big as dolls and stuff that dd2 wants. Doesn't help that dd2 is waaaay easier to buy for. Actually I say that but out of last years efforts dd1's camera is still valued, while the peppa campervan has had sparodic use at best 😏

Yes it's a nightmare. Both dds are lovely and super grateful for what they get but I always get myself wound up trying to get it right and equal. I'm sure they don't actually notice!! I'm determined not to panic buy once I've decided I'm done and got what I need that will be it!!

Oh no. I'm totally having a panic today and trying desperately not to panic buy loads of tat!! I've bought a cheese making kit..... Think I might be losing it 🤣🤣

I always like my DD to have a decent sized pile but its not always toys. I bulk it out with clothes, shoes, toiletries, chocolate, craft stuff etc. I'm panicking at the minute though as I'm not sure if I've got her enough toys as her must have items were an iPhone and some Nike Dunks - she's 8! She's also mentioned something today called a 3D pen which I had to Google. She puts 3 things on her list to Santa and the rule is these have to be toy or craft based and she receives these in a seperate gift bag.

I always do a full house declutter in November and anything that she hasn't played with during the year (unless a treasured soft toy) gets binned or donated - I involve her in this and she enjoys it.