Christmas has been celebrated on December 25th since as early as 336 AD. For years the cold and dark winters became a little more bearable with rich foods and family gatherings. The modern-day Christmas, however, looks quite different — with the average family projected to spend over $1,000 in 2019. With all this pressure to keep up with the Joneses, how can you stay within budget this holiday season?

For Young Kids

With young children, the temptation to overspend is high. You love the way their eyes light up after each new package they open. But a practical mindset can save you hundreds this Christmas. Children begin to build long-term memories as early as two years old, but these memories often don't last past the age of six — meaning even if you get every item on their wish list, kids likely won't remember the gesture. A few ways to save money without being a scrooge:

• Wrap toys they already own. Take a few toys that won't be easily missed, wrap and store them for a few months before the big day.
• Make experiences the gift. Create a day for your children — hiking, ice-skating, candy-making, and similar adventures make for memorable presents.
• Advent gift-giving. 12 or 25 days of small gifts like socks or pajamas can actually save money in the long run while keeping the Christmas spirit rolling longer. Kids get to enjoy each gift individually rather than being overwhelmed by a pile on December 25th.

For Older Kids

As children mature, so do their tastes — and trendy items can carry hefty price tags. A few ways to save money when shopping for older kids and teens:

• Start a conversation about giving back. Helping kids clean out their closets and gadgets can bring awareness to how fortunate they truly are. Dropping off clothes together can be a rewarding experience for the whole family.
• Gift cards. Gift cards let kids feel independent without breaking the bank, and they become a great lesson in budgeting. Look for gift cards that come with discounts for buyers to stretch your dollar even further.
• Buy used. Sites like Poshmark, ThredUp, and Facebook Marketplace are goldmines for thrift-minded shoppers. Find great deals on name-brand items — often brand new — for a fraction of the retail price.

There are plenty of ways to be thrifty during the holidays. Don't weigh the worth of your holiday against the weight of your wallet — the memories that last are long hugs, cozy times, and laughter. Kratos Gas & Power has consistently low natural gas rates for any heating needs this winter, and our blog has great ways to save money on your utility bill in the months ahead. We wish you all the best during the upcoming holiday season.