Some experts say families spend up to 70 percent of their total discretionary income in the five weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas, preparing for a magical holiday.

Hidden holiday costs like party attire, decorations and incidental gifts add to the confusion. But one thing is certain. Each year Americans spend more and more money to get into the Christmas spirit only to find they are less than jolly by the time the bills arrive.

A good place to start reining in on holiday expenditures is the traditional stocking hung over the fireplace. Once typical stocking stuffers were feel-good items such as penny candy, a box of cocoa and perhaps some peppermint sticks. Today, many stocking stuffers rival the cost of the items found under the tree. To help recapture some of the nostalgia of an old-fashioned Christmas, this year why not consider stuffing the stockings with more meaningful gifts?

The gifts don’t need to be out-of-the-ordinary. In fact, you might just find you can generate more excitement by adding a creative twist to some day-to-day items that may have needed replacement anyway.

Some simple ideas include a pair of furry slippers with a reindeer or polar bear head. Or a matching hat and gloves that sport a trendy tie-dye color scheme. School supplies in neon colors or with squishy textures might also be well received. And what better time to replenish these items than at the school year’s half-way point?

If you’re like most families, you’ve probably already consumed enough sweets to last until the next holiday. So don’t feel the need to fill stockings with chocolates or candies.

Additionally, this is the time of year when many children have long, extended school breaks that often lead to boredom. With a little creativity, you can inexpensively think of ways to fill those idle hours with some well thought-out stocking stuffers. Crafts, puzzles and playing cards will fit nicely in the stocking without breaking the family piggy bank.

Books also make great gifts. Not only do they help pass time quietly away from the hustle and bustle of the holidays, but they also reinforce positive habits. A great stocking stuffer that encourages reading is a mark-my-time digital bookmark.

Gifts don’t have to be expensive to be appreciated. Nor should holiday spirit be measured by the amount of money spent. Some of the best gifts can be the most practical ones. Whether it’s something to help keep warm, keep busy or keep on track, there are many gift ideas that can be cherished for less than $10.