Home > Fayette.Talk > Archives > 2007 > February > 05 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USDo you spoil your kid?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I know it’s well over a month since Christmas/Hanukkah ended, but I’m still fretting because I spent $50-plus for some perfume my 14-year-old daughter “had to have.”
Every time I walk by that little pink bottle, I just sneer. I don’t buy things like that for myself so why I would I buy it for my kid? Like many parents, I just couldn’t say no to a once-a-year-request. I caved in again.
Her birthday is Thursday and she requested a combo fax/scanner/printer machine. Yes, It’s already purchased. And I’m asking myself, “Why would a kid that just turned 15 need a fax machine or a scanner, for that matter? Is she running a small business out of her bedroom?”
Let’s not go there.
So I ease my mind by figuring I’m bound to get some use out of her new birthday present. How does that sound for rationalization?
Maybe I need to start a new program — S.A., or Spoilers Anonymous.
“My name is Abby Brunks. I’m the mother of a spoiled child.”
“Hi, Abby!”
No, that’s not the answer.
It’s time to face my spoiling demons head on and just say no. In the meantime, I could use a little help from you fellow bloggers. Please send me some examples of how you spoiled your own children or stories you’ve heard about other kids. Have you made a purchase like I did that gnawed at your conscience? I want to hear how other parents justify an extravagant purchase. Maybe that’ll make me feel better.
Permalink | Comments (3) | Categories: Abby Brunks
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By Rvance
February 6, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
When I was in high school, I knew a parent who would buy her son two copies of long-playing 33 rpm records (remember those?) that the kid wanted. That way the kid would not have to turn over the record to hear both side. He just put side A on the turntable and side B on the spindle to drop down when side A ended. In modern times, I know a parent in Peachtree City who bought their kid a new Lexus when the kid turned 16. The kid has no sense of reality, thanks to Mom and Dad.
By Sue
February 7, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this
I have an only child who will soon be 22 and yes, we spoil him. But he has also been taught values which hopefully will be effective. Spoiling our children with material things will cause great problems as they get older. Unless we learn to say “NO” we will always be bailing them out. I have friends who have ruined their own credit because they bought the sports car in their name for the child, with the promise that the child will be responsible for payments. Payments were not paid and the parent’s credit have been damaged.
By Fraser
February 8, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this
I like to spoil my 5-year old with love, not toys. But, I can’t stop the flood of gift toys that come from grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, classmates, members of the congregation. When I look at the aftermath, I ask my wife, “What’s the difference between our house and Toys-R-Us? My wife shrugs. “Aisles and price tags,” I replied.
I tell my child the truth about my upbringing. I didn’t have a “fraction” of the toys he enjoys. He says, “Don’t worry, Dad.” He gathers up some matchbox cars, a few “Thomas the Tank Engine” trains, and presents them to me. “Here, take some of mine, Dad. I’m happy to share with you.”
I tossel his hair and say, “it’s about 30-years too late,” but that’s very sweet. He says, “Imma buy lots of toys for my kids.” I kinda smile and say, “I hope you can.”