Alternative Gifting Ideas
’Tis the season for crowded stores and limited parking spaces. Parents are easy to identify: determined eyes and multiple lists in colorful scrawl. The gifts may vary, but the end goal is the same. We look forward to the joy on our kids’ faces when they receive exactly what they wished most for. These moments seem fleeting, however. What if we could harness that joy into something long-lasting?
Do you remember the scene in How the Grinch Stole Christmas when he has stolen all of the presents and the Whos still find a way to be cheerful? I’m reminded of this every year when I think of what to get my boys. They’re still young—not quite old enough to compile their own lists. We have focused in previous years on four categories: educational, musical, practical and fun, and then we typically purchase a small gift from each category. As the boys get older, however, I’ve begun to think about ways to enrich their lives outside of material possessions. Here are some ideas I’ve researched:
Experiential. Some of the best gifts I’ve ever received have been those that have allowed me to go somewhere or do something. It solidifies a memory that extends much further than Christmas morning. Ballet classes, art lessons or tickets to a monster truck show are fun gift ideas. The best part about experiential gifting is that the options are infinite and customizable to the person. Blue Springs Mom Holli Ann says, “We do experiential gifts in our household. My daughter will be 4 in February, so she’s grown up with a mix of traditional and experiential.”
Time. How often do you give each child your complete and undivided attention? I have a 2- and a 3-year-old. As much as I’d like, giving them my complete attention doesn’t happen very often. Taking them out for one-on-one activities brings them so much joy. It also allows me to focus on their individual skills and interests. There are several activities my older would love to do, but my younger isn’t ready for. Some ideas are a lunch date, a movie he’s wanted to see, bowling, skating, bumper cars and miniature golf.
Family-Oriented. Instead of spending money on toys, consider investing that into a family vacation. It could be a weekend in the Ozarks, a trip to Disneyland or a destination with a price point anywhere in between. The most important part is just spending time together, away from the routine of everyday life. A fun way to decide on where to go is to present two options to the kids and have a family vote.
Subscription Based. In “Too Many Toys: 15 Unique Gift Ideas for Kids,” on Babble.com, one great suggestion is an educational magazine subscription, such as National Geographic Kids. Another is a craft delivery service like one from KiwiCrate.com. According to the site, every month is a fresh, fun learning experience. Each delivery includes all the materials and inspiration for two to three activities: art, science, games, imaginative play and more. Each month is a new theme, like gardening, dinosaurs and outer space. There are also subscription services for clothes, books and travel.
Membership Passes. A number of local organizations offer yearly membership passes. A Kansas City Zoo membership pays for itself in just two visits, according to the site. The zoo also offers a variety of events, such as meet-and-greets with the animals, adventure clubs and sleepovers! Be sure to check out VisitKC.com for a list of entertainment, arts and cultural centers to find one that suits your family’s needs and interests.
Giving Back. BHG.com lists some great examples of donating to a favorite charity in the name of a loved one and sending cards and care packages to soldiers stationed overseas. If you prefer to give back locally, wrapping presents for children at women’s shelters is another idea. Even younger children like mine can get involved. Helping those in need illustrates compassion. I want my children to understand the importance of giving to others. More importantly, it’s something that can be shown all year long, not just at Christmas.
I feel like my kids are very fortunate. They have a home, plenty of food to eat, an abundance of books and educational toys and parents who love them with everything they’ve got. I don’t have to buy them anything to prove this. As with anything else, however, my husband and I continuously strive for balance. Will there be a few presents for them to open on Christmas morning? Of course! The difference will be in the gifts not wrapped in shiny paper, the ones that will last a lifetime and require no battery replacement. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the holidays.
Jennifer Bosse lives in Kansas City with her husband and two sons. She looks forward to alternative gifting with her family.