"I get it. It's hard not to feel completely deflated. All these perfectly chosen gifts, and they just want their ratty old doll from upstairs with the marker on her face? You bought them the exact book series they begged for, and now they want to watch YouTube Kids? It makes you want to throw everything back up the chimney with Santa."
"Think about it: When you get all your new Christmas goodies, are you immediately ripping open the brand-new set of mixing bowls you sent a direct link to a relative to buy you? Are you immediately diving into the new book you wanted, or eating every single item in your stocking? Do you rush upstairs to use your new moisturizer?"
Children commonly do not play with new gifts immediately because receiving many presents can be overstimulating. Preference for familiar toys after gift opening reflects a need to regulate sensory and emotional responses rather than ingratitude. Adults likewise often delay using desired new items until feeling comfortable, demonstrating that immediate engagement is not universal. Quiet moments amid chaos help both children and adults recalibrate and process excitement. Patience from caregivers supports gradual exploration of new toys and reduces pressure on children. Large numbers of gifts increase the chance of overwhelm and delayed interaction with presents.
Read at Scary Mommy
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