A sad sign of the times when kids realize how hard thing are right now. Santa and parents are both saying kids are being a bit more realistic this year with their wish lists.

More of the story after the jump.

A job for their mom or dad. Money for the heating bill. Food or a place to live. Maybe gloves or boots. More and more, Santas say the children on their laps are asking for less for themselves  and Santa is promising less as well.

With unemployment stubbornly high, more homes in foreclosure and the economic outlook dim, many children who visit Santa are all too aware of the struggle to make ends meet.

It is very hard to tell a child no, but sometimes something good can come of it. Families are teaching their children to be as much of a giver as a receiver. That's the positive that comes from hard times.

Are your kids asking for less this year?



 



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