Christmas calling Chinese parents

The Christmas season is here again and Chinese cities seem to be catching on the festive spirit with Christmas trees displayed in or in front of many shopping malls. But, and it is a huge but, if Christmas is about anything it is about children and the beautifully gift-wrapped presents they receive from their parents, families and friends.

Chinese children will soon revel in the excitement of the Lunar New Year and the hong bao, or red envelopes of money, they will receive from family members. It will always be the most special time of year for them. The Lunar New Year is special also because families make huge efforts to be together, something that all children eagerly look forward to.

But why not introduce Chinese children to stockings or pillowcases full of Christmas presents wrapped in multi-colored wrapping paper and add to their excitement?