We give our teenagers more experiences than gifts for Christmas. It brings us closer as a family.

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The author with her family on Christmas Eve together.
The author and her husband prefer to give their kids experiences instead of gifts for the holidays.

Courtesy of Terri Peters

Mom of 15 and radio personality Delilah: I use plastic plates and homemade gifts during the holidays, and prioritize giving back.

Tech Insider : Business
Delilah in studio
Delilah is a mom of 15 and loves homemade holiday touches.

Courtesy of Delilah

I work in a research lab and have kids under 7. These are the science-based gifts that they've enjoyed most over the years.

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STEM lantern kits that the author's children built.
The author said her kids enjoy a variety of STEM-based toys they've received, including these Poraxy lantern kits.

Courtesy of Anne James

My kids finally know Santa isn't real, and I'm thrilled. I can now rein in my holiday budget.

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a woman placing a present under the christmas tree
The author is saving money this Christmas.

cmogopor/Getty Images

My kids already lead privileged lives, so I refuse to go all out at Christmas

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Bare christmas tree

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We relied on my mom for childcare. She was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, and everything changed.

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A daughter holds her mom's hands.

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I've been giving my 8-year-old more independence. It's been great for our family.

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The author's son poses outside, in front of greenery, while wearing a light-colored shirt.
The author has been letting her 8-year-old son experiment with more independence in recent months.

Courtesy of Sydni Ellis

I'm trying to be hands-off as my teen applies to college. It's been difficult for me, especially when they missed a deadline.

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A pile of college mailers
The author's son is applying to college.

Courtesy of Trisha Daab

I'm choosing to be a caretaker for my family instead of having kids of my own. I'm giving back to my mom.

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Kim Izaguirre-Merlos wearing a white tank top and glasses.
Kim Izaguirre-Merlos lives with her mom and family and has always been in a caretaking role..

Brett Patzke/Brett Patzke

All my kids have grown up, so we've changed our holiday traditions. We scaled back on decorations and added a day of festivities.

Tech Insider : Business
Kids around Christmas tree
The author's blended family has changing their holiday traditions as the kids grow older.

Courtesy of the author

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