It’s close to the hour of 2 AM as I write this and my eyelids grow increasingly more heavy by the second. Since the kids have drifted off to dreamland my husband and I have been getting everything in order for Christmas morning. How I’m still standing at this point, is beyond me. My thoughts however, begin to swirl around the incredible lengths that parents go to in order to create a truly magical Christmas for their children. The holiday season is a special time for all ages but especially for the countless parents that work tirelessly to make it something extraordinary.

On average, parents spend about $173 on holiday gifts for each child, according to a study by What To Expect. However, the insights delve even deeper into the spending for Christmas.. Surprisingly, Gen Z moms are spending more on their kids’ gifts than their millennial counterparts. Despite earning considerably less, these younger moms are willing to stretch their budgets further to ensure their little ones experience the magic of Christmas. It’s a testament to how deeply they value the joy their children derive from a festive season filled with surprises.

In families with multiple kids, the average amount spent per child is about 18% less. The budget tends to be more generous for families with only one child, highlighting the unique dynamics and resources that come into play during the holiday season. Regardless of the number of kids, the motivation remains the same: to create memorable moments.

The effort that goes into preparing for Christmas is no small feat. Parents pour their hearts and souls into making Christmas special by helping create cherished memories. On average, parents dedicate around 20 to 30 hours actively preparing for the holiday. This includes activities like: shopping, wrapping gifts, decorating the tree and planning holiday meals. The most intensive portion of this preparation happens during the week leading up to December 25th, as parents hustle to ensure everything is just right.

In a world that often rushes by, parents show immense dedication to creating a festive atmosphere where children can fully embrace the spirit of Christmas. It’s clear that the magic of Christmas is not only found in gifts but in the love and commitment parents invest in making each holiday a cherished experience for their children.

So, as I give the living room one last look on my way to bed, I’m reminded that the greatest gift is not the presents under the tree; but in the time, energy, and heart that goes into making the holiday season a time of wonder for all.

What lengths are you willing to go to in order to create the Christmas magic?

Share those magical moments in the comments below

Merry Christmas to you and yours 💕