We have a very simple rule at home - anything that the kids want has to be classified into one of the two categories - Necessity vs Good to have. Necessity is prioritized first, we first try to understand why the kids think, it is necessary. At times they feel something is very much necessary and is their urgent need, but that may not be entirely correct. Their interpretation is always based on their knowledge, visual perception and even desire, which can be entirely different when we look at them. So in case of conflicts, we discuss with them and make them understand and agree to the reality. At times they don't agree and it takes a little more time for them to accept, but we don't give up - truth always prevails, so you will have to accept it. And if it's a strictly necessity, then no questions asked - they get what they need, but purchase quality and price subject to our affordability. You always get better versions at premium price, but then we can't afford everything and they have to understand the reality - we can't buy them luxury, simply because we are not rich. It may sound bad hearing this, but I prefer to live in reality - you have not seen our hardship, compared to that, what you get is luxury in our view. If you want more luxury, then you will have to earn that. And as parent, I will never hesitate to give you luxury, if I become that rich ( e.g. #hive goes to 20$) - I am a giver, but I can't give more than what I can afford - I don't want debt.
And then there are certain things that they want which is good to have - it's quite natural as human being. We all have some liking and feel good about having something. - be it good food, apparels, jewellery, travel etc. If its a small thing like food, or apparels then we mostly allow, but with some restrictions on the budget and timing. For example, we don't allow outside food very often, once and twice in a month is fine, but not more than that. Kids now have access to everything at their fingertips, they have phone, they have Swiggy, Zomato to help with all kind of junk foods, so this restriction is very much necessary for their health only - they will understand later. Similarly a lunch or dinner out is only planned, if we go on shopping or movie or if its a special day. Then everything again is tied to a budget - every parent would love to give their best to their kids, isn't it ?
Recently, we had some real practical usage of these minimalist practices, more to come on that in another post. This post is in response to the KISS BLOG prompt #166 of this week.
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