ISN'T Christmas a lovely time – children with excited faces and smiles when they talk about how many ‘sleeps’ to the big day, schools and nurseries singing Christmas carols and parents racing around trying to find that elusive toy!

According to a recently published study, the average UK family will spend more than £800 on Christmas this year with more than £470 on gifts.

The cost of the season can get out of hand as we try to buy everything our little one desires. I myself have been caught out before now by the temptation to overspend in an attempt to please, only to be disappointed when said child plays more with the packaging and the cheapest stocking fillers!

I have discovered a place that gives the best gift ideas that have more meaning to them and probably cost a third of the price of any other present. The website Pinterest is loaded with inspiration for making Christmas gifts. Cards and pictures can be created using both your and your little one's hand and footprints, which not only serves as a personalised gift but also creates an historic piece of family life.

Giving an ‘experience’ or day out can also be affordable this year. The World of Beatrix Potter, at Bowness-on-Windermere, is offering free entry to locals with an LA postcode in December, and the South Lakes Safari Zoo, at Dalton-in-Furness, has a winter discount offer (for full details, contact the attractions direct). Why not include an outing as part of your little one's Christmas gift?

See www.parentandbabycoach.co.uk

NEXT WEEK: The pressure this time of year brings for families to be happy.