How do you kindly end a family gift exchange?

Say so early, offer something else

Bring it up before anyone has started shopping, and say it plainly, to the whole group at once if you can. Offer something in its place, like a cookie swap or gifts for the children only. That's common practice, and you'll often find someone else was hoping you'd say it.

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Gifts and giving

How much should you tip at Christmas? What should I give my child's teacher for Christmas, and how much? How does Secret Santa work, and how far ahead should you draw names? What are the rules of a white elephant gift exchange? What goes in a Christmas stocking? What should you bring to Christmas dinner as a guest? How long do you have to return a Christmas gift?
Do we have to give a reason?
No. Saying the family has grown and you'd like to simplify is plenty.
What could we do instead?
Draw names so each person buys just one gift, or keep presents for the children and share a meal.
What if someone gives me a gift anyway?
Thank them and take it. You don't owe one back, and you can bring it up again earlier next year.

Draw names insteadPlan a cookie exchange

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Last checked Monday, November 9.

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