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Gift-giving at Christmas is an important tradition in our family. It is a way to remind us of the BEST-Gift-Ever and helps us celebrate His birth in a tangible way. With Christmas right around the corner, I have been thinking about what ideas to share with grandparents and other family members who want to buy gifts for my kids. And, of course, what gifts will I give to them?
My first thought is that they don’t need anything. And yet, Christmas is a time for giving. My second response is no more toys!!! We have too many as it is, they only play with a few, and it is just more stuff to keep organized. There is even scientific evidence that the more toys kids have, the less they actually play. Definitely something to think about as another Christmas rolls around with even more toy options than last year.
What should I tell those who love my kids and want to get them a gift they will enjoy? What gifts should I give my children this year that will show them the reason we give gifts to one another? After all, God is our example and He is the best Gift-Giver of all time!
In my pondering, I have come up with a few interesting ideas that are NOT toys, but are still exciting! These gifts are meaningful, intentional, useful, and practical. They step outside of the commercialized toy aisles and force us to think about what our children really need.
As a homeschool family, we are in a constant state of learning. We acquire knowledge and understanding in a variety of ways everyday. It is only fitting that our Christmas wish-list contains options that aid in learning as well. The following compilation offers alternative options for families who are feeling weighed down by excessive amounts of toys!
Restaurant or Experience Gift Cards- As a large family living on one income, we don’t often spend much money on our outings, but we love to do things TOGETHER! We tend to choose free activities and anything other than that is a real treat! One year, my children were asked which restaurant was their favorite and then received a gift card from the great-grandparents for that restaurant. They received enough to cover our whole family which meant we could all eat out together. It was a special gift for the kids (and parents)! We have also received memberships to museums in the past which were enjoyed the whole year through. Consider choosing a local business to support such as a bowling alley, zoo, or art studio.
Real-Life Mamma or Papa Helper Items– These days if you look at a toy catalogue, you can find all kinds of pretend play items, but the kids seem to outgrow these quickly. The toys also seem to be made of cheap plastic and break within months. Instead of toys, consider asking for the real deal so a child can be a helper to mom or dad. Things like an apron, hammer, tape measure, flashlight, sewing kit, hatchet, or garden tools can make a child feel grow-up and will encourage him or her to learn new life-skills. Kids thrive on feeling needed or useful and this is one gift idea that will do just that!
Art Supplies- As a mom of young kids, I can honestly say that art supplies are always welcome! Whether it is paint, smocks, new coloring materials, stickers, construction paper, or even fancy scissors. If you have an aspiring artist, you may want to ask for an easel or even a way to display artwork. Just as God is creative, we encourage our children to be creative in their own unique ways. Some choose art supplies while others choose Legos. Either way, encourage them to create by choosing gifts that inspire their creattivity!
Educational Extras- Homeschool families often have two lists at the beginning of the school year. Supplies they need and supplies they want. Rarely do I purchase our wants at the beginning of the school year. Instead, I include those in Christmas gift ideas so as to spread out the fun. These gifts are educational, yet fun because they tend to be hands on learning opportunities which are new and exciting! Some options might include a globe, electric pencil sharpener, educational place mats, dry erase books, rock tumbler, science experiments, or Children’s encyclopedia.
Lessons- The options are limitless. It could be a virtual class or one taken in a group. Think of something your child would like to learn that you aren’t confident in teaching. It may be a musical instrument, painting, technology or computer related, woodworking, sewing, horse-back riding, sports, etc. When a child is given an opportunity to learn something new, it is something that will stick with them for many years to come. Perhaps a grandma is skilled in cooking and would like to offer to teach the lessons herself. She could set up a schedule of classes and include an apron, recipe book, and cooking utensils or bowls for a unique gift idea.
Dress-Up Clothes or Costumes- Try to think what your child has been interested in lately or what you have been learning about in school. Ask for clothing items that would allow them to dress up, act out scenes, or just use their imaginations during playtime! These don’t have to be commercial costumes. Instead, it could be fun to receive a collection of items from Goodwill or other second hand shop. Cowboy hats, fancy dresses, suit jackets, boots, etc. I have fond memories of using old, fancy dresses which provided hours of pretend play for my sister and I growing up. These items can be kept in a tote for easy storage.
Games- Games are educational, fun, and a great way to interact as a family. We find that games allow for many character-building or teaching moments as well! Since we rarely watch TV, it is nice to have some age appropriate board or card games to choose from. Our library has recently started loaning these out as well, but there are times when I find an interesting game and just add it to the Christmas list. Some of our favorites are Skip-Bo, Sequence for Kids, Spot-It, TENZI Dice Party Game, Qwixx, and decks of regular cards for hours of fun!
Read-Alouds or Audio Books- Our family spends much time reading. We choose books over television as a way to pass time on the rainy or cold evenings. When I hear of an interesting title, I jot it on a list and when it comes time to make requests, I choose one we can all enjoy together. Audio books are another great option. My kids ask for an audio book as soon as we get in the vehicle. Since it takes us at least 30 minutes to get to our destination, we go through 3 or more audio books per month. Our library has some great choices, but those they don’t have make a good addition to the wish list. If you aren’t sure which books to request, try one of our favorites: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, Secret Garden, Charlotte’s Web, or Justin Morgan Had a Horse.
These ideas are far from normal Christmas wish list ideas, but it is becoming clear that we need to be intentional about how we spend our time and money. Our children don’t need another toy from the newest movie or an electronic game to waste away their hours. I have often said that our children don’t need our presents, they need our presence. Does my gift-giving reflect a desire to pour into my children? Each year we have the option of providing more stuff that clutters their room or giving them gifts that are meaningful and have a purpose.
This does not mean we never purchase toys for our kids, but we are thoughtful about the kinds of toys they receive. This year, we choose the gifts that will bring happiness while also engaging their creative and curious minds. We will strive to give them our time through experiences, playing games, and reading together. May our gifts be a reflection of the love we have for our children.
