There’s nothing quite like watching your child unwrap the Christmas present a relative has given them, only for their face to crumple as they realise they either already have it, didn’t want it, or they really wanted what their sibling had instead.

Cue a meltdown in 3... 2... 1...

I’ve been the relative. I’ve also been the parent. It can be pretty awkward for all involved.

The thing is though: sometimes we get presents that aren’t really our cup of tea. But as adults, we’re just better at hiding our disappointment.

It’s ‘normal’ for kids to have an emotional reaction to presents

Therapists told HuffPost UK it’s totally normal for children – especially young kids – to have an emotional reaction to their presents.

Counselling Directory member Lianne Terry said: “It’s super common and very normal” and noted that small children in particular “can have strong expectations and limited flexibility”. On top of that, “the holidays are overwhelming and over-stimulating which lowers the ability to cope”.

If they don’t like the gift, or are annoyed because they wanted what a sibling had, therapist and Counselling Directory member Sarah Lee noted “they might not be able to hide this reaction very well”.

“It isn’t fair to expect children to manage this perfectly and they may need help to do this,” she added.

How to react when your child expresses gift........

© HuffPost