Want to have a gift that will keep your child’s interest and make a lasting memory? Here are some ideas that can be used this year and for years to come.
- A calendar so that your child can mark off all the days you will be having a regular “date” with them. Spending one on one time with your child is a gift that will be remembered. Chronicle the dates by collecting photos or special treasures – such as menu from a restaurant or ticket to a movie. In addition. Most importantly – don’t break the date. “Pinky-Swear!” Your work can wait.
2. Paper bags and markers so they can decorate a special gift for someone else to help them learn that sharing is caring. Teach your child that the holiday is not the ONLY time to give more than you receive. So, make a weekly/ monthly time with your child to do good for others. Such as going to an area where the homeless may frequent and give out sandwiches and hygiene packets (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.
3.Take them to the dollar store for a special trip. But, don’t shop for them but for FIDO, as animals matter, too. Teach your child the value of being kind to animals by visiting a shelter and dropping off toys and blankets for the animals that are there. And, if you want to extend the lesson, consider signing up to foster a pet in your home through a reputable pet adoption agency. (PetFinders.com may be able to assist you here).
4. Make an invitation paper and pencil set. Let them have a party – but instead of gifts offer that the guests bring donations for a charitable cause. There are many kids now who will opt for a “party with a cause” when it comes to holiday or birthday celebration. Some ask for items to be donated to hospitals or other organizations, such as Toys for Tots.
5. A Camera. Create a memory book so that these magical moments are not forgotten. And, if you want to be “So 2017” allow them to use a video camera on your phone, perhaps. (Note: there are some very reasonably priced apps that can edit both video and photos.)
6. Kid friendly kitchen gadgets for weekly family dinners – sans electronics. Want to give your child a gift that will be memorable? TURN OFF YOUR PHONES and COMPUTERS. Unplug. COOK dinner in your home and serve dessert, too! Play board games after dinner. Invite a friend of your child to make it extra special. When done.. make a plan a do it again!
7. All the things you need for backyard camping – including the telescope! Take learning outdoors and let your kids learn from experience that is “not forced”.
8. A library card. Why restrict reading, music and movie viewing to what you can afford from a store or online website, when there are thousands of FREE books, videos and music available at a L-I-B-R-A-R-Y!
9. Give them a grandparent hug. Time with grandparents, aunts/ uncles, cousins and other people who are important in the lives of your child can be the best of gifts! Remember the idea of making a memory with a video or camera. Including loved ones is a good idea, too!
10. A staycation. Plan a weekend of fun and (often) cheap/free activities with your child. Museums are an excellent place to spend time. Hikes and bike ride through your locale, too! And, for those quieter times, open up the arts and craft supplies you gave your child create fun cards and smiles.
