This post may contain affiliate links which may compensate us based on your interaction. Please read the disclosures for more information.
I’ve unlocked the secret to dealing with my children’s desire for toys. Here’s how I have been able to save money by avoiding unnecessary purchases.
Image source: Getty Images
In 2022, consumers in the U.S. spent an estimated $29.2 billion on toys. If my two children had their way, that would have been $39.2 billion. Based on my conservative estimate, they asked for around $10 billion in toys during the year.
Although I never realized it until I was a parent, toys can be found just about everywhere, and almost always at toddler eye level. Even the hardware store has Matchbox cars on sale, not to mention the candy and toys at the grocery store.
Unfortunately, this wise marketing works very well on my kids, and if I gave in every time they requested something, there would be no money left in my bank account. Of course, I tend to say no more than I say yes since I don’t want to end up in credit card debt or have to buy a bigger house just to accommodate my daughter’s doll collection.
The problem is, this used to lead to a lot of protesting and even an occasional tantrum. Since my kids are 4 and almost 2, reasoning with them doesn’t always work to avoid the theatrics, but I have found a simple way to get them to just move on happily instead of fighting for their desired item.
Hopefully, my approach can help other parents deal with this tricky situation as well.
This is how we handle requests for toys in our household
Several months ago, I decided to try a different tactic rather than just saying no when my kids asked for a specific toy. Instead, I now offer to take a picture of the item and add it to their “wish list.”
They get to hold up the toy that has captured their attention, I snap a photo and show it to them, and I tell them that I’m keeping the picture in a special album on my phone. They can look through it and pick a toy when it comes time to buy one as a treat, and I’m able to refer back to the album when holidays and birthdays come around for gift ideas.
Once my kids get to hold the item and take a picture of it, they no longer have a fit when they have to put it back on the shelf — especially since they’re aware there’s a very real chance they may end up getting the item later. The picture-taking serves two purposes — it distracts them as they pose for the shot and look it over, and it helps them to feel like their request has been heard.
Thinking outside the box as a parent helps me keep my toy spending down
The reality is, kids are expensive enough without feeling like you have to give in and buy toys to avoid a meltdown at the end of a busy day. Techniques like this one have made all the difference in helping me avoid unnecessary buys, and you can try them out yourself too.
Hopefully, they will also enable you to get your littles to happily put the toy back on the shelf while making sure you spend meaningfully on toys they want — but only at times that make sense for your family and your budget.
Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR until 2025
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. This card features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.
We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
