Advanced psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist CLAIRE GASKIN sees clients in Essex and in London’s Harley Street. She is now bringing her expertise to the problems of our readers as our agony aunt. If you have a problem you’d like Claire’s advice with, email agonyaunt@nqe.com For more details on Claire’s work, visit benefittherapy.co.uk/

Dear Claire,

Christmas is coming and I have no money. I have three small children, am a single parent and work full-time.

There is barely any cash left over for extras during the rest of the year so putting any aside for the festive season is almost impossible for me.

The dreaded adverts have started up again, full of luxury food and toys I cannot afford.

My credit card is already perilously close to being maxed out and I am suffering sleepless nights wondering how I will pay for it all.

Obviously I know there is no miracle cure for my lack of funds but do you think I should sit my children, who are 11, six and five, and explain to them the situation or just cut back on gifts without saying anything ?

I have only recently split from their father and when we were together Christmasses and birthdays were quite lavish affairs and I don’t want to add to the existing upset over the marriage breakdown.

Claire says: Yes, tell them a little of the truth.

Explain there is less money in the household budget this year but there is nothing to worry about. Say that you will be doing more things to have fun together, in place of lots of gifts.

Create a Christmas of happy memories and involve your children by challenging them to come up with ideas for family activities which are cost-effective, such as movie nights, carol concerts and museum trips.

Pick up tips from craft shows, or sites like Pinterest and Youtube, to make your own wrapping paper, decorations and presents with the kids, and go for walks in the woods to collect pine cones and holly to embellish later.

Consider buying a family gift for everyone to enjoy, instead of individual presents, and plan the meals you’ll be having over the festive season so that you buy only the items you need.

Have fun with the children making special treats, such as gingerbread biscuits or a chocolate yule log, to store away and look forward to.

Share ideas and get support by joining a local group, either in the community or online - mumsnet.com and meetup.com are great - and do please talk to your doctor if the sleepless nights continue.