The five gift rule, a great way to give thoughtful and meaningful gifts to your children during the holiday season. The rule is simple: get each child five gifts, one for each of the following groups

Something they need: This is a gift that the child needs but may not be thinking about buying for themselves. It could be something practical, like a new winter coat, or something small like some fresh new bubble bath, or maybe even a toothbrush or maybe a toothpaste making kit (it may well encourage them?!?) 

Something they want: This is the gift that the child has been asking for or talking about. It could be something big or small, but it should be something that they will truly appreciate we have so many lovely toys all sourced because they will last and will play well. Watch out with this one, especially if they a very young. They may and could possibly change their mind. So unless its 'the' toy of Christmas hold out until after their list is fully finalised or they have visited Santa... Or you too as I did might find yourself heading out on Christmas Eve buying that one thing they asked Santa for...

Something to wear: This is a gift that the child can wear and enjoy. It could be a new piece of clothing, a pair of shoes, or an accessory. We always received PJ's from my Grandma, a lovely and easy gift, plus a great memory. Or how about shopping local or from a small independent brand and buying something truly individual for them? Some of my favourite brands at the moment are: 

That's not Fair, a wonderful independent brand based in Dalston, London. A shop full of delightful clothes & accessories! Over the years we have bought so many things you cant possibly leave without picking something up, the owner is amazing and so giving with her time and helpful too! Totally divine and all made in Hackney!

LazyDaze a Nottingham based mummy run business creating the cutest as can be hand printed sweatshirts!  All designed and hand made by the wonderful owner.

Something to read: This is a gift that we can all enjoy, either reading together or  when older reading themselves. It could be a book, a magazine subscription, or even an e-reader. We particularly love The week Junior and Aquila magazines for kids. Watch this space - you will soon be able to buy books at Binky too!

Something they don't know they want: This is a gift that will surprise and delight, something out of the blue. We love crafts and games, a boardgames that the whole family can enjoy, or a new activity to engage in.  Or how about an experience, like tickets to a museum, local petting farm, or zoo. Or the Theatre?

Using the five gift rule is a great way to get started with your Christmas shopping, you can also share between family members so each gift giver takes a group, it will save them so much time and ensure there's no 3 sets of the same game or a stocking full of bath bombs on the big day! 

It is also a good way to avoid overspending!

Another and final great tip is, there is no shame in creating a wish list to share with family and friends! They will love that you will save them time tracking down the right gift! It's not just big retailers who have them, we do too, so give ours go!