Q&A for How to Get What You Want for Christmas

Not really. Aprons aren't typically really expensive, but the "Nerdy Nummies" cookbooks are kind of expensive. They are cheaper at some stores.

You could continue to mention how much you'd like this particular gift you have in mind and hope they catch on -- or, you could graciously accept whatever they give you and hope you get enough cash or gift cards from other family members to buy it yourself.

Look at the things you really want/need; if it is something you don't desperately want or need, take it off the list.

Try being extra responsible. Do your chores without being asked, and do anything else that you see needs to be done just to be helpful (take out the trash, pick up after your siblings, etc.). Make sure to keep your grades up too. You could also do some research about taking care of hamsters (or whatever animal you decide you want) and telling your dad about what you've learned so he sees that you're serious about it.

Just ask them anyway and tell them the reasons why you want it, and hopefully they'll see it from your point of view.

They might consider it if you explain the reasons why you want to have it, but you must remember that they are quite expensive. Maybe you could mention that it would be useful for homework, and they'd always be able to get in touch with you.

You could think about a pink emoji cushion, notebooks, stationary, or jewelry. You can get mermaid sequin cushions with pink emoji designs on them, which is quite a unique present and can be fun to play with, as well as comfy to rest on.

You can try saving up your money and say you'll pay for half of it if your parents or relatives pay for half. You could also ask that everyone who wants to give you a gift contribute toward your cockatoo instead.

Before going to your parents, think about this: do you really want one for the right reasons, or just want one because everyone has one? If you are positive you want one, tell your parents why you do. Tell them all the advantages of having an iPhone, and then be willing to do what they ask; for example, do the chores they ask you to so you can show that you're responsible.

Write thoughtful thank you notes for your gifts and take good care of them. If you are careless with your gifts, it looks like you don't appreciate them.

You could explain why the iPod Touch would accomplish something that your phone wouldn't. That's probably the only way you'll be able to change his mind; otherwise, he'll just continue to say that you could use your phone instead.

Sell your Xbox! It's as simple as that. You don't need two gaming consoles.

They said they won't buy you a new laptop until you start spending less time on your electronics, so that's what you have to do. Tell them you took their words to heart and you're going to spend less time on your computer. Then actually do it. Make sure they see you doing productive things like working on your homework and doing chores. Only use your laptop when you need it for school. You have to compromise with them if you want to get a new computer.

When I am getting something for my brothers, I generally tell one of my parents and then go into the store. If my brothers are in the same store as me, I try to sidetrack them, grab their gift, checkout, and then hide it so they won't see.

Don't be sad if you don't get exactly what you want for Christmas. Christmas isn't all about presents, it's about being thankful and appreciating what you have. You can always ask for what you wanted for your birthday, save up to buy it yourself, or wait until next Christmas.

You need to just ask for that iPad.

If you feel the need to do so. It would be respectful and would seem generous, which is always a good thing!

They have their reasons. It might be financial problems, too much responsibility, not enough time to look after it, or they might not think that it would enjoy living with you. There are many reasons, so just wait a year or two and see if anything changes.

Maybe suggest starting with a flip phone/non-smartphone instead of an iPhone. That way it's just for calling and texting, and it won't cost them very much.

Maybe you could read a synopsis of all the books on your shelf and tell your parents you've read them. Or you could try to negotiate. Explain that these books are only available this year, and promise to read the other books as soon as possible. Tell them you'll read one per week, and start one now!

Be super nice to them, do your homework on time, get good grades, and do your chores on time. Your parents will probably want to reward you for being good.

Virtual reality headsets are fun. But they are also very expensive. Be sure to prove to your parents that you are mature and responsible enough to handle it. Also, be ready to not get it. You don't want to set your hopes so high that you are crushed. Sometimes, we don't get what we want, it is okay, there is always next year.

The more expensive an item is, the harder it is to get. Continue to show that you are responsible and will take care of that item. Also, don't assume that people know that is what you want. Without being annoying or rude, be sure to let them know that is what you want. Also, be ready to understand if you don't get the item.

Many of us have been in your place. There is a time that you should respect your parent's decisions. That being said, there are still ways to plead your case. Try showing your parents that you are up for the responsibility. Walk the dog, babysit your siblings, do chores without complaining, start a task or goal and get through it. The more you show that you are ready, the more your parents will see that you are. Also, mind your time on electronics, if your parents see you glued to the TV for hours or always playing on the Xbox, they are going to assume that the same thing will happen when you get a phone. You can also keep in touch with you friends other ways such as letters. Hang in there!

You should negotiate with your parents and choose a couple items from your list to get as gifts.

How badly do you want it? The more people you tell, the better your chances of getting it. However, I will let you in on a secret: if you get two, you can usually get the store to exchange one for a different video game (provided you do not open it if it is a physical copy, or redeem the code if it is electronic). Is it really so bad to have to pick another game?

You have little chance to change how much he will bring you. There are only two things you can do to help, but you have to do both and, even then, it may not work. First, you have to be really good; not just avoid being bad, but actively doing good things, like helping others and trying to save the planet, to get higher on the "nice list." Second, Santa sees every penny you save your family: turn off lights when your siblings forget, save small pieces of soap to make a new bar, repair broken toys, buy from thrift stores, etc. This can take all year to work.

While there is a chance that it is not for you, more likely they are telling you that they are not going to get it for you because they want you to be surprised! Unsuspecting! Do not tell your parents you saw, for it will disappoint them. Instead of asking for it repeatedly, print yourself a picture of it to "dream about." Make plans for it - the layout or who you will invite into it - and every time they say "not going to happen" tell them "but I can dream, can't I?" The goal is to not let them figure out you saw it, but hype yourself up so they still get that overjoyed reaction from you when you open your gift. Get happy, very happy.

Do not get your hopes up. "Too young" is a very powerful argument, usually only overcome by actually growing up. There is a small chance you can overcome this by demonstrating your maturity and addressing what being "too young" means to your parents. You might lose or damage something so expensive? Create systems to take care of your belongings and prove yourself responsible. Worried about Internet access? Research age-appropriate apps and have discussions on media literacy. Show you are ready, but be prepared that you may still have to wait.

You're in a bit of a catch 22: you need to get the iPad to prove you're responsible with it, but can't get it before you've proven it. Try and point out that it's been a really long time since you caused any new cracks in your old iPad. Also, buy it yourself at least partially. You may find that if it's your money, you'll be a lot more careful.