Tackling pester power

Read our handy hints on dealing with pester power

Pester power is just a fancy description of when children and young people are desperate for the new fad and want mum and dad to pay out for - often pretty expensive - toys, clothes and trainers and don’t stop asking until they get it.

Companies have realised how powerful children and young people are as consumers. Many marketing and advertising campaigns aggressively target children and young people. Every season, especially Christmas, new toys and gadgets come onto the market and many children and young people want to get their hands on it.

Although it doesn’t feel like it at times, you as the parent are the most valuable resource for your child and any creative time you spend together is worth more than anything you buy. Even if you work, which leaves you with less time, think ‘quality time’ and do something you both enjoy.

It can feel good to spoil your child with expensive gifts but cost is a great consideration for most parents, as is keeping limitations on how much you treat your children, so how do you manage your child’s demands and expectations? The link below contains some handy hints.

Be assured that other parents are struggling with pester power too. You certainly are not the only one who can't afford everything on the wish list!

Groups and workshops give you the opportunity to share your experiences with other parents and to get some fresh ideas on how to help you and your children make the most of life.

Parent to parent support

• Tips on tackling pester power