ONE of the girls at work came into the office yesterday, brandishing the first Christmas present of the year – she'd seen a book that she knew her mum would love so snapped it up while it was still easily available.
Of course, that set us all off on stories about Christmas budgeting, presents we have and haven't loved, and Christmas when we were kids.
One of my favourite activities for the autumn, when I was a child, was to sit at the kitchen table surrounded by different coloured card or paper and lots of glitter.
Making cards was lots of fun for me and my sisters, especially when we were thinking of the person who was to receive it as we were making it, so we could put funny pictures on that we knew they would like.
And then there was the crafts season, when we would spend whole Saturdays making loads of fudge to give our friends in little gift boxes, or sticking those little shop-bought calendar attachments on the bottom of home-made pictures to send to grandparents.
Maybe kids are more sophisticated now and don't revel in hours of sticking wonky pictures on to colourful backgrounds, but many children still enjoy spending time making things. It's the best time of year – to get ahead with Christmas present making, or to celebrate Eid.
Most of us are looking for ways to tighten our belts now, so look for some great craft ideas at www.activityvillage.co.uk
And use this season of economic turbulence to start to introduce your child to sensible money management. They say the most effective way to form a habit is to start early, so this could be a great time to encourage your children to be more financially aware.
Making moneyHave a chat with your child about where their money comes from and explain that there isn't a limitless supply.
Agree a regular amount of pocket money if your child is too young to get a part time job, and make sure you can afford to stick to it.
Your child will tell you that other people get more than they do and they may be right.
Explain to your child that you will buy them certain things, and other things they must buy for themselves.
So, for example, some children who get a lot of pocket money have to buy their own comics or sweets, while in other families the parents pay for those and the children get less money.
You can find all the information you need at www.sheffield.gov.uk/childemployment
SavingsEncourage your child to save up for things, by explaining what it is that you will buy for them and what they will need to buy themselves.
If they want something expensive that you're not willing or able to commit to buying for them, they could save up pocket money or wages to get it themselves.
If you haven't already got a savings scheme in place and don't know where to start, think about joining a credit union.
Some of our schools, like Monteney Primary School, have facilities in school for you to join and to pay money in.
Alternatively you can go to www.fisy1.co.uk or ring 0114 2760787.
If you'd rather pay into a more conventional savings account, shop around to get a good deal. Impartial advice is available at www.moneysavingexpert.com
Katie Harrison, of Sheffield Council, brings a regular guide to parents and carers about how to put the issues of family life and education into practice
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