How to handle christmas..

So since Christmas is coming up I've been thinking alot about what to do for my son.

When I was growing up my parents gave us a set amount of money we could spend and catalogs of nearby stores. Then told us to budget what is most important. We can spend what is available but decide what we wanted by looking over prices of toys and deciding worth of said toys.

I've heard mixed emotions about this from a lot of parents.

Some think it helps in learning money management. Others think kids that young shouldnt know anything about money management when it comes to Christmas and it ruins the surprise.

My parents still got us other things, so we were always surprised. That's not an issue.

I'm wondering what you ladies think? Should I start this tradition with my son or do what's normally done?

Edit: My son is 9. Sorry! Would have been good info to add.

He has long been over believing in Santa. (Even though I still always add one present from him)