Holiday Shopping
The winter holidays often generate a whirlwind of questions: Should I buy the latest electronic gizmo for my child? What are some tips for holiday shopping on the Internet? How can I manage my family budget this December? Virginia Cooperative Extension offers solutions for families and individuals hoping to manage their finances and stay informed about the latest money trends. In this media kit, you will find a feature story on how to shop for young children as well as past articles on holiday shopping and finances. You will also discover links to additional resources and a listing of experts who can provide the latest research-based information about holiday shopping.
Latest News
Extension expert suggests parents buy age-appropriate toys that promote learning this holiday season (November 2007)
As families with young children canvass shopping malls for the best toys this holiday season, many parents and guardians may ask whether they should buy the latest electronic gadgets or stick to puzzles and board games. One child-development experts suggests age-appropriate, learning-oriented toys.
Experts
| Dawn Barnes | Family and consumer sciences Extension agent and family financial management educator | Virginia Tech | (540) 745-9307 | lbarnes@vt.edu |
| Novella Ruffin | Extension child development specialist and assistant professor | Virginia State University | (804) 524-5257 | nruffin@vsu.edu |
News Releases
Planning can help keep holiday expenses under control (August 2007)
No matter how well most people say they have planned for the December holidays, a good many still find they’ve spent more than they intended. They dread January and the “bill season.”
Holiday online shopping tips (December 2003)
Around the holidays, consumers catch the shopping bug. Recently, online shopping has become an easier and more relaxing method than the typical shopping mall and department store sprees. With such a low-stress shopping method, it is easy to buy on impulse and spend money on items that are unnecessary, overpriced, and of low quality. To spend money wisely and safely, follow these recommended tips.
A fresh Christmas tree is a safer tree (December 2002)
Shopping for the perfect Christmas tree can be one of the highlights of the holiday season. There are several things to remember about buying a cut tree that will ensure the tree is fresh, making it a safer tree throughout the holidays.
Publications
Extension has family financial management publications that answer questions about tax law changes, investing, cutting costs, and much more.
Multimedia
Don’t overspend this holiday season (December 2005)
Radio news feature with Celia Hayhoe, family resource management Extension specialist
Teach children about responsible holiday spending (December 2005)
Radio news feature with Celia Hayhoe, family resource management Extension specialist
All video and audio resources are courtesy of University Relations Office of Visual and Broadcast Communications.
Additional Resources
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is a government agency committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard or can injure children. Check out its website for information on toy recalls.
For additional tips on shopping for a Christmas tree, visit the Virginia Christmas Tree Growers Association website.
Many counties and cities have family and consumer sciences agents with resources on family and personal finances during the holiday season. Contact your local Virginia Cooperative Extension office for more information about a program in your area.
Extension also has a directory of Extension experts on all of the topics it covers. If you need help locating a source or looking for additional information, contact Michael Sutphin at (540) 231-6975 or Lori Greiner at (540) 231-5863.