"When a family member wants to give our children a gift, we suggest they buy them dance or swim lessons.  We also request gift cards to such places as pottery-making stores or Build-A-Bear Workshop, which we can use any time of the year.  Our children do receive some regular presents for holidays and birthdays, but getting a few lesssons and gift cards means they aren't overwhelmed with stuff at the holidays.  Plus, they get to reap the benefits all year long."  Jessica Brown (from an article in Family Fun Magazine)