This is what parents are telling to the toy companies. “Just back off, we don’t have money to buy your expensive toys” – This is the message given to toy companies by Boston-based Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood.

Economic crisis is hurting every household in U.S. It’s really difficult to say “No” to the kids when they want the special gift for Christmas. Parents feel guilty when they do that. However, writing the letters to toy companies is not going to stop them from aggressive marketing.

Everyone is looking after their own interest. Parents don’t want to say no because they can’t afford. Toy companies can’t stop the aggressive marketing because they have to survive this crisis. Richard Gottlieb, a New York-based consultant to the toy industry gave a blunt reply “Delivering disappointment goes with the job of parenting” in his blog. Mean people.

You don’t need to say “No” to the kids. But, you can scale down your expenses. If you usually buy two gifts, try to make that one this year. Instead of buying an expensive iPod Touch for your teenage children, you can get iPod Shuffle. Kids don’t have lot of monetary desire like adults. They just want to feel the love and affection from you. It doesn’t matter whether you gift them “Thomas and Friends Bounce Around” that costs $170 or “Tickle Me Elmo” that costs $12.

Related Link: Meltdown fallout: some parents rethink toy-buying