Gifting Memories
Helpful Gift Ideas For Kids
Holiday gift-giving can be magical for all ages but we can attest that as a child, it is especially exciting. However, when I think back, the actual gifts I remember less and the experiences surrounding them I remember more. One of my most memorable Christmas gifts was a pink scooter. My brother, and each of my two cousins also received one but in different colors. I fondly remember spending Christmas morning riding them indoors around the circular “track” we created in my Grandma's house because there was too much snow on the ground to ride outside!
Other memorable holidays involved playing board, trivia, and card games of all kinds. Getting the adults and kids together in silly and interactive ways made for really great fun.
The point is, when gift-giving for the kids in your life, don’t forget that it’s the opportunities to connect that can really make a gift special. With that in mind, here are a few ideas to help create your own magical and memorable
gift-giving experiences!
Lessons, Classes, and Camps. This gives a child an opportunity to try something new or enjoy an experience while helping ease the budget for parents. Maybe it’s sport-related such as karate, dance, or gymnastics. Or maybe it’s focused on theater, learning a musical instrument, or something hands-on and creative!
Board and Card Games. Sometimes oldies are goodies so classics are great starts but there are so many options to consider and they are all set with the built-in opportunity to play right away. I know my kids are always ready to learn a new game!
Event Tickets. Tickets to concerts, performances, sporting events, and even movies can create excitement beyond the unwrapping. Plus, they allow you to be a part of the fun and create another way to be together beyond the holidays.
Memberships and Passes. From the zoo to a children’s museum, to a club membership, these don’t take up space and allow another opportunity to spend time together outside of the season.
Sports Equipment. This can include expanding on a sport that a child is already interested in or something that encourages them to get outside and be active. A new jersey, leotard, or specialty footwear is both useful and a fun, flashy gift to give as well as receive.
Subscriptions. Magazines or activity box subscriptions that cater to a child’s special interest help keep the fun going all-year round and can help spark conversation between the two of you.
Pro-tip: Unwrapping a brightly colored package is exciting so if you are concerned a gift card or an "experience" like an annual pass to the zoo for your main present may fall flat, pair it with an inexpensive smaller gift with the same theme so they have something more tangible to open that not only complements the larger gift but reminds them of you.
Remember, it’s not about the amount spent or the latest and greatest toy, it’s about showing generosity, and sharing love and time together!
Jodi Richey, 55+ designer and mother of two kids age 8 and under, shares her ideas to help bridge the connections between kids, grandparents, and gift-giving.