I stopped buying random toys for Christmas.🥰

Instead, I’m saving money for each grandchild in their own bank all year.

When Christmas comes, I mail it to them and let them decide.

Because teaching kids how to handle money

is a gift that lasts longer than any toy.

This is my new tradition.

And I’m never going back. 🎄💰

1/30 Edited to

... Read moreOver the years, I realized that the thrill of kids unwrapping toys fades quickly, but teaching them about money management offers lifelong benefits. By saving money for each grandchild throughout the year and gifting it during Christmas, I give them not only financial resources but also an opportunity to make their own choices. From personal experience, I've seen grandchildren become more curious about budgeting, saving, and even investing when they have money in their name. This approach encourages conversations about value, necessity, and delayed gratification rather than instant toy gratification. It’s a subtle yet powerful way to introduce financial literacy at a young age. Moreover, the anticipation of receiving money has turned into a shared family experience. I enjoy mailing their gifts and including little notes about smart money habits. This new tradition emphasizes trust and respect for their decisions, which strengthens our relationships. This method also helps manage holiday spending stress and clutter. Instead of accumulating unused toys, children can decide whether to save, spend wisely, or invest their money in something meaningful. It’s rewarding to watch them grow more confident in handling their finances. It feels like preparing them for a more secure and thoughtful future, which is truly the best gift I could offer.

Related posts

A light green Nintendo Switch with cute animal-themed accessories displays game icons, including Princess Peach: Showtime! and Moonlighter Demo. The image is captioned "COZY GAMES I REGRET BUYING," implying these are beloved games, and is set on a wooden surface with small potted succulents.
A light green Nintendo Switch displays the title screen for "DAVE THE DIVER." Surrounding text praises the game's addicting story, developer's love, mini-games, cut scenes, and a collaboration, all set on a wooden surface with small potted succulents.
A light green Nintendo Switch displays the title screen for "DREDGE: THE PALE REACH." Text around it highlights the game's unique, underrated nature, mystery, beautiful sea creatures, and its appeal to fishing and horror fans, on a wooden surface with succulents.
Games I unfortunately Regret Buying 😫
Did it work? I hope so 🙈. Honestly theses are probably my Top 3 games on my switch! 1.DAVE THE DIVER is a casual, singleplayer adventure RPG featuring deep-sea exploration and fishing during the day and sushi restaurant management at night. Join Dave and his quirky friends as they seek to uncov
Endia 🎀

Endia 🎀

4642 likes

never buying boxed brownies again!
Recipe: Whisk together: -5 tbsp melted butter -1 1/4 cups sugar In the same bowl whisk together: -2 eggs & 1 egg yolk -1 tbsp vanilla Next fold in (using a spatula): -1/3 cup vegetable oil -3/4 cup cocoa powder Once combined fold in: -1/2 cup flour -1/8 tsp baking soda -1 tsp
Gracey

Gracey

10.3K likes

things I stopped buying on a low income 💰💸💲
When you’re low income, it’s not usually the big purchases that hold you back — it’s the small, frequent spending that quietly eats your budget. I didn’t stop buying everything fun. I stopped buying things that didn’t actually improve my life. Convenience spending, trend-based purchases, and dai
Jessica | LIFESTYLE 💕

Jessica | LIFESTYLE 💕

1085 likes

How I stopped being broke! 🫶
- rocket money 🚀 - Albert - Walmart+ - thrift shops - control impulse buying! - have a realistic budget, that you can ACTUALLY stick to! 💰 - stop over consuming! 🛑 Swipe through the tips above! Hope this helps! Follow for more lifestyle content!🫶🎀 #lifestyle #money #brokegirltips
Pinkvenus🍒

Pinkvenus🍒

1147 likes

low income buying rules 💸💰💲
When you’re low income, every purchase has a ripple effect. Something small can easily turn into overdraft fees, credit card reliance, or stress later in the month. That’s why I stopped asking “Can I afford this right now?” And started asking: • Will this make next week harder? • Does
Jessica | LIFESTYLE 💕

Jessica | LIFESTYLE 💕

168 likes

The front of a board game box for a classic marble-chomping game, featuring cartoon hippos and children playing. An overlay bubble reads 'Toys I Regret Buying Last Christmas'.
Toys I Regret Buying Last Christmas For My Toddler
The toys I regret buying last Christmas… aka the things my toddler played with for 12 minutes and never touched again. If you’re shopping for your little one this year, learn from me. 😭🎄 I need to know—what toy was your biggest waste of money? #kidschristmas #toddlerchristmas #kidschrist
CozyGirlMama 😎

CozyGirlMama 😎

179 likes

A woman in a car, wearing a trench coat and striped sweater, applying lip gloss. The image features the title "CLOTHING I DON'T REGRET BUYING FROM AMAZON".
Two cotton rib zip-up hoodies, one black and one light grey, inspired by Skims, displayed on a textured white blanket.
Two pairs of 100% cotton lounge pants, one light grey and one dark grey, folded neatly on a textured white blanket.
CLOTHING I DON’T REGRET BUYING FROM AMAZON
high quality amazon clothing finds that I’ve been living in lately 🤍 Link in bio to shop! #amazonfashionfinds #amazonfinds #amazonmusthaves #amazonfashionhaul #amazonclothes
riannagail

riannagail

823 likes

A collage of various beverages in clear plastic cups, some with lids and straws, alongside a bottle of kombucha. A prominent pink banner across the center states, "STOP USING SINGLE USE PLASTICS AT HOME."
An infographic titled "9 REASONS TO REFUSE SINGLE-USE PLASTIC," illustrating negative impacts such as fossil fuel origin, carbon footprint, pollution, and harm to marine life and human health.
Four clear glass cups with bamboo lids and glass straws, filled with different colorful beverages. These reusable cups are presented as an alternative to single-use plastic.
Why are people buying single use plastic cups?!
why is this becoming “aesthetic” and normal?? The saddest part is when I see people comment on posts like this asking where the creator buys the single use plastic cups 🥲 STOP PROMOTING EXCESS PLASTIC WASTE. Is the “aesthetic” worth it? A single plastic cup for your one coffee will be on earth
britney 💞

britney 💞

1635 likes

An overhead flat lay displays various Amazon fall basics, including a brown handbag, brown slippers, a beige sweater, brown leggings, grey cargo sweats, and neutral socks, all in earthy tones.
Three Amazon fall bags are displayed on a white textured chair: a black tote, a white saddle bag, and a brown dumpling bag, showcasing versatile styles.
A beige knit sweater with a ribbed crew neck and ribbed cuffs is neatly laid flat on a white surface, highlighting its cozy texture.
Amazon fall basics I don’t regret buying
Fall fashion finds on Amazon have my heart this season! I’m all about cozy yet chic looks that work from day to night, and Amazon has it all. Let’s start with bags – this black tote is my go-to for everyday essentials, while the brown dumpling bag adds that trendy edge I’m loving. And for a pol
Sarah

Sarah

2573 likes

A bookstore display features multiple copies of the book 'Powerless' by Lauren Roberts, with the text 'BUYING BOOKS >>>> READING BOOKS' overlaid. A person is visible in the background.
A tall bookshelf in a bookstore is filled with numerous romance novels. The section is labeled 'Romance', and the text 'BARNES TRIP!!!!' is overlaid on the image.
A hand holds the book 'Postcards from Summer' by Cynthia Platt, featuring a charming cover with pink and green illustrations. The text 'THIS COVER IS SO CUTE' is overlaid.
buying books >>>> reading books
barnes trip!!!!!! #barnesandnoble #bookshopping #books #reading #readingaesthetic #booktok #reading #bookrecs
joline

joline

144 likes

A neon sign displaying 'FUNDELIVERED' with a cactus, alongside a wooden box also labeled 'FUNDELIVERED' and a 'DANGEROUS' sign, relating to the sale of unclaimed mail.
A pallet stacked high with numerous packages of various sizes and wrapping, illustrating Fundelivered's inventory of undelivered mail.
A hand holding a black 'CHANEL CARTE D'AUTHENTICITE' card above a pink quilted handbag with a gold Chanel logo, representing an item found in an unclaimed mail box.
Interview for #wallstreetjournal
A while back I got interviewed for an article that after leaving my comments at Fundelivered. #FunDelivered sells unclaimed boxes of mail. Here is the article from the The Wall Street Journal. We have purchased more boxes for a small Christmas Eve activity and an even bigger family Christmas
RachelleH

RachelleH

0 likes

Tips I wish I knew before buying a PC/Laptop
Trying to find a PC/Build a PC or Looking for a Laptop can be like going down a rabbit hole 🕳️ I’m no computer guru (yet lol) but… Here’s some of the basics I wanted to share for the next time you’re out searching! Ram is the most important and the runner up is storage! 💎16gb is barely c
TechnicallyShai

TechnicallyShai

164 likes

Better swaps for snacks I stopped buying 👀
You asked… so here are better swaps 👀 Not perfect, just options I feel better about grabbing instead. This is exactly what I’m buying now instead of some of the snacks from my last post. If you’re starting your low-tox journey, this is one of the easiest places to begin 🤍 Want me to do mo
Low-Tox Mom | Ana

Low-Tox Mom | Ana

198 likes

Snacks I stopped buying 👀
Not perfect, just more aware of what I’m bringing home now 👀 #lowtoxicliving #foodlabels #healthyswaps #groceryfinds #toxinfree
Low-Tox Mom | Ana

Low-Tox Mom | Ana

517 likes

Two white iPod Classics are shown, one in a clear case, both displaying 'iPod MENU'. A white keyboard with pink keys is in the background. The title reads 'Buying an iPod Classic in 2024 Where to Buy: Tips & Tricks'.
This image lists places to buy iPod Classics, including eBay, Mercari, and Elite Obsolete Electronics. It also suggests eBay and iDemiGods.com for replacement parts, especially for self-modding.
Four tips for buying an iPod Classic are presented: look for new batteries, seller warranties, check hard drive health, and consider modded classics for improved storage and battery life.
Tips & Tricks for buying an iPod Classic in 2024
The fact the iPod classic is considered retro tech now is crazy to me. Because of this, it is a bit difficult to find a fully working one in 2024 that’s also not a crazy amount of money. I’ve had my classic for years, however last year I purchased a modded one so I thought I’d share some places w
doms.cozyspot

doms.cozyspot

1248 likes

A hand holds a pink Alani energy drink can, labeled 'Pink Slush,' next to an orange 'Strawberry Sunrise' can. The image has text overlay 'why I stopped buying ALANIS' and is set against a blurry outdoor background.
why I stopped buying Alanis 🫶
My pride + joy. 🩷 What is your favorite flavor??!! #alani #alaninu #alanienergy @
Rylee Lehnen

Rylee Lehnen

2106 likes

Reviewing kids toys
Nickwilkins

Nickwilkins

2286 likes

open ended montessori toys that actually last
open-ended montessori toys that actually last, the ones still in rotation a year later. I stopped buying single-use plastic and switched to a few open-ended pieces that grow with my toddler. One toy, a hundred different games, that's the test. Here's what earned its place: 1. Woode
Parent Toddler Talks

Parent Toddler Talks

5 likes

The image shows four perfume sample vials on a textured surface, accompanied by pearls. The title reads 'MY NICHE SAMPLE JOURNEY From curiosity → clarity', with 'SWIPE' and social media handles at the bottom.
The image displays the title 'WHY I SAMPLE' with bullet points explaining reasons like 'How it develops', 'How it feels', and 'How often I reach for it'. Three perfume sample vials are visible on a textured background with pearls.
The image features the title 'SOFT ELEGANCE & MUSKS' listing perfumes like Lipstick Rose, Bal d'Afrique, and Tardes. Three perfume sample vials are shown on a textured surface with pearls.
I Stopped Blind Buying Perfume — Here’s Why
I used to blind buy perfumes because of hype. Pretty bottles. Viral reviews. Big promises. But sampling changed everything. Trying a fragrance on skin — living with it for days — taught me what I actually love, not what I’m told to love. Some scents are beautiful… but they don’t stay wit
Narada Yaris

Narada Yaris

2 likes

Hair Habits I Stopped Doing
Some of the biggest improvements in my hair came from changing habits, not buying more products. These are the things I stopped doing to help reduce breakage and keep my hair looking healthier 💜 everything I used to fix it is in my profile #hairbreakage #hairtips #healthyhair #haircar
nicnac

nicnac

345 likes

I stopped buying expensive skincare and bought an Aloe plant instead 🌿✨
Honestly I probably use my Aloe plant more than half the products in my bathroom #houseplants #plantlover #skincareroutine #glowup
Mick’s Leafy Queen

Mick’s Leafy Queen

267 likes

What I Stopped Buying To Save $2K Last Year 💸
#money #savingmoney #budgeting #richgirlaesthetic
💸

💸

472 likes

I stopped buying horchata after making this
I grew up drinking horchata at family parties, but I never realized how easy it was to make at home. After this batch, I honestly stopped buying it. Ingredients: 1 cup rice 4 cups water 1 cinnamon stick Cover and refrigerate 4-5 hrs or overnight 1 can evaporated milk 1 can condensed milk
Pao

Pao

10 likes

The 24- Hour Rule That Stopped My Impulse Spending
I used to think I was bad with money, but honestly I just never paused before buying things. The 24-hour rule helped me stop emotional spending without feeling misarable. Now I buy things more intentionally, save more money, and don’t feel guilty every time I shop. What’s the most random thing
The Inspired Momma

The Inspired Momma

29 likes

I Stopped Calling It Self-Care 💭
Self-care is not just buying a serum. It is also going to bed before your body begs you 🫠 The product can be part of it. But it cannot carry the whole meaning alone 🌙 Comment like you mean it 👇 I want the honest side, not the polite one 💬 #nightroutine #skincarerealness #beautyt
byrdbridget6517

byrdbridget6517

14 likes

A hand holds a Polly Pocket compact shaped like SpongeBob SquarePants, packaged with miniature figures and accessories, on a store shelf. The word "Tempted" is overlaid.
The back of the SpongeBob SquarePants Polly Pocket compact packaging, displaying the open compact with tiny figures and a miniature world inside, along with product information.
A hand holds a Polly Pocket compact shaped like a pink fluffy bear, packaged with a small doll and accessories, on a store shelf.
I tried to leave without buying one 😭
I’ve been in such a Polly Pocket phase lately and these stopped me in my tracks 😭✨ Tried to walk away… but clearly I did not 😅 Last slide is what I ended up taking home 👀 Would you have grabbed one too or stayed strong? #PollyPocket #ToyFinds #NostalgiaToys #CuteCollectibles #L
RetroEssie

RetroEssie

691 likes

Things I Stopped Buying To Pay Off Debt Faster 🎀✨
Paying off debt didn’t mean I stopped enjoying life… I just became more intentional with my money 💕 The biggest thing that changed my finances was cutting back on small habits that were draining my wallet without adding real value to my life. Things I stopped buying: ♡ random Amazon purchase
CurlyGlamBudget

CurlyGlamBudget

126 likes

I stopped buying random toys
I’ve tested a lot of toddler toys over the years… and these are the ones that actually stuck. The ones they reach for on repeat, the ones that hold their attention longer than five minutes, and the ones that don’t just become clutter a week later. Hi, I’m Casey… a mom of four who’s always lookin
Casey Wiegand

Casey Wiegand

23 likes

A hand holds an Alani Energy 'Orange Kiss' can on a beach at sunset, with a person's legs visible. The image includes text 'Why I stopped buying ALANIS......' and a brand logo.
Why I stopped buying alanis……
I could never! Been a lover since day 2018! 😍😍 #alaninu #alaninuenergy #christianlemon8
Simply Stevie Nicole🦋

Simply Stevie Nicole🦋

6379 likes

I Stopped Buying Toy Boxes 🤯
I was tired of tripping over books and toys. The canvas totes we were using just weren’t cutting it anymore. I finally decided we needed a more organized system These storage bin shelves provide a more organized way to put away toys rather than just throwing them in a giant box. I made toddle
AmandasCozyCasa

AmandasCozyCasa

255 likes

A pink-themed image titled "HOW I STOPPED impulse spending and saved more MY 6 SIMPLE HABITS." It lists six habits for saving money, including budgeting, using cash envelopes, and tracking spending. Various budget planner templates, such as a weekly budget, a 100-envelope challenge, and a payday budget, are displayed on the right.
How I Finally Stopped Impulse Spending 💸✨
I didn’t completely change my finances overnight — I just started building better habits little by little. 💗 These are the 6 things that helped me stop impulse spending and actually save money consistently: ✨ budgeting every paycheck ✨ using cash envelopes ✨ planning my spending ahead of time
CurlyGlamBudget

CurlyGlamBudget

116 likes

8 Things I Stopped Buying to SaveMore Money 💸
💸 Things I stopped buying to save money in my 20s… No, I’m not perfect with money. But cutting back on a few things has helped me save more than I thought possible. ✨ Daily coffee runs ✨ Random Amazon purchases ✨ Fast food multiple times a week ✨ Impulse Target trips ✨ Subscriptions I for
Alainafishy

Alainafishy

5 likes

Things I stopped buying to save money
More of the things I stopped buying to save money! I tend to spend money more on things like quality items that I use all the time (and will not become clutter in my house) and experiences that will turn into memories... what about you? Follow me for more money tips 💡 #Lemon8partner #m
Kim Liao

Kim Liao

42 likes

5 THINGS I STOPPED BUYING TO SAVE MONEY!
FIVE ITEMS I STOPPED BUYING TO SAVE MONEY! Buying reusable items is not only better for your wallet… it’s also better for the environment!:) Single use items are so damaging to our planet, so investing in some quality reusable items is the way to go!!! I stopped buying many of these things YE
savingswithsav

savingswithsav

5937 likes

4 things i wish i knew before buying a bunny 🐰🤍
on some random tuesday in late february 2025, i scrolled through a couple of bunny care tiktok videos and decided “hey, i wanna get a bunny.” so i called my boyfriend and asked him to come with me to roxoborough so i can buy my new furry friend. (fun fact: my boyfriend actually picked libby’s name!
CHRYSALIX🪬💓

CHRYSALIX🪬💓

38 likes

The day I stopped splurging…
A few months ago, I was buying perfumes, oils, and whatever caught my eye. It felt good... until I realized I had more fragrances than savings. So I started being intentional with my money. A grocery list turned into budgeting, cash envelopes, and better habits. Now I'm a month ahead o
SavingGirlEra

SavingGirlEra

136 likes

Dollar Tree BEACH TOYS worth buying🏖️
Planning a beach day soon & need something to keep the kids entertained? Then be sure to stop at Dollar tree because they have lots of great beach toys for only $1.25. #dollartree #dollartreefinds #beachtoys #summerwithkids #lemon8challenge
Dania Toddler Mom & UGC

Dania Toddler Mom & UGC

46 likes

A white countertop features two credit cards, one black with a shocked emoji and one white 'Select Rewards VISA.' Overlay text reads 'My No Buy List - 2026 spending list -', indicating a financial challenge. The image includes a Lemon8 watermark.
Things I’m not buying in 2026
Last year’s No Buy list helped reach my financial goals. Let’s do it again! 1. No Amazon purchases - I’ve officially been off of Amazon for nearly one year and it’s been life changing. I no longer browse for things to buy when I’m bored and instead I take walks or read a book. My credit card tha
Jau 🤎

Jau 🤎

1023 likes

Two Magic: The Gathering proxy cards, "Halvar, God of Battle" and "Sword of the Realms," are displayed side-by-side. Both cards feature full-art designs and detailed text, consistent with the article's theme of high-end proxies for gameplay.
A hand holds a Magic: The Gathering proxy card, "Halvar, God of Battle." The card is a Legendary Creature - God with a 4/4 power/toughness, featuring full art and detailed rules text.
A close-up view of the text box of the "Halvar, God of Battle" Magic: The Gathering proxy card. The text describes its abilities: granting double strike to enchanted/equipped creatures and allowing equipment/aura reattachment during combat.
Why I stopped buying RL "Wall Art" 🃏
Let's be real: the secondary market is a joke. I’m moving my originals to the vault and putting these high-end proxies in my deck. 1:1 Black Core, correct weight, and the snap is perfect. Best way to keep your collection safe while still playing high-power Magic. Your wallet will thank you.
Elite TCG Lab🇨🇳

Elite TCG Lab🇨🇳

2 likes

The image displays the title "3 REASONS NO ONE IS BUYING WHAT YOU'RE SELLING And what you should be doing instead!" in white text over a dark background with a book and a candle. It includes the Lemon8 branding.
A black background features a white quote by Meredith Hill: "People do not buy your products, they buy your solutions." The Lemon8 branding is at the bottom left.
The slide addresses "#1. You haven't defined your target audience," explaining the importance of specific targeting with an example of women aged 25-45 interested in fitness. It suggests creating buyer personas.
3 reasons no one is buying what your selling!
You constantly post your content but not making sales? Then save this to increase your sales💰 First Like, Follow,Comment, And share for more! You need to be talking to your audience so you can help them purchase your offer! Let them know what they need. Create more post that relates to others.
Trendo boss

Trendo boss

4 likes

A person holds a blue and white dog-themed toy piano keyboard. A speech bubble reads 'Toys I Regret Buying Last Christmas' with 'Part 2' and a sad emoji, indicating regret over the purchase.
The toys I regret buying last Christmas Part 2 😩
Toys I regret buying last Christmas because my toddler said ‘thanks’ and immediately went back to chewing on a remote like a feral raccoon. I need to know—what toy was your biggest waste of money? #kidschristmas #toddlerchristmas #parenting #christmaswithkids #lemon8challenge @
CozyGirlMama 😎

CozyGirlMama 😎

181 likes

The interior of a used car, showing the front passenger seat and rear seats, with text overlays "Lemon8 Scrapbook" and "*Buying My First Car*".
A driver's view inside a car, showing the steering wheel, dashboard, and gear shift, with a text bubble asking "what did i buy?".
A hand holding a stack of cash, illustrating the purchase method, with text explaining the car was bought "out right in cash" after saving money.
buying my first car 🩷
let me go ahead and give you the run down 🏁 why i needed the car? - i just needed something reliable to get me from point A to point B as I continue through my college years into med school! it is honestly a necessity and saved you a lot of money without the extra ubers/lyfts, ordering grocerie
khay ✰

khay ✰

622 likes

choices i stopped making for a healthier lifestyle
#weightlossandfatloss #weightlosstipsandtricks #weightlossjourney #weightlosstips #caloriecounting
PCOShealingsophia

PCOShealingsophia

6 likes

See more