Brace yourselves for every parent’s holiday season conundrum: Buy more toys for Christmas that will clutter up the house or end up in the trash? Or get…what…to go under the tree on December 25th?
In our house, we’re aiming for less “stuff,” both overall and also for gift-giving. Studies show that less stuff means less stress–less to clean, less to distract, less Legos to step on. (Can I get an amen on that one?) Annually we try to remind our kids that Christmas isn’t really about the presents. And my social anxiety can’t handle the crowds on Black Friday.
But then when we asked family members to keep that thought in mind this year, they responded, “what should we do instead?” Great. Question.
If you’re in a similar boat this year, I have some suggestions from personal experience that have been a hit in our home. Consider one of these options for the littles in your life:
1. Museum or Play Area Membership
One of our best purchases when my oldest two were little was a children’s museum membership. We went nearly every day, as a way to get out of the house and play with new friends. And hey, it’s about equal to giving them a whole new playroom of toys!
We have some fantastic local children’s museums, as well as several “play cafe’s – indoor spaces that are invaluable during a PNW rainy season. A zoo membership is a great idea too!
Also, a few museums in our area are part of the Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) Passport Program, which means if you have a membership at one, you can visit others around the country for free or at a discounted rate. This summer we used this program to visit museums all over the country! It’s worth it to check and see if the membership program you want to join is part of ASTC. (See their website for terms and conditions.)
2. Experiences
If you’d prefer not to do a whole membership, even an afternoon at the zoo or museum would be a wonderful choice. You might even consider a trip to an arcade for an afternoon (always a win with my elementary school kids), or a workshop at a local craft or home improvement store. (Many bigger businesses have free class options, like Home Depot and Loews every month.)
You might instead look up a family-friendly festival or event in the area to attend on the weekend. We have so many local events that have music, food, vendors, and activities. It’s a delightful outing for the kids, and they might even learn about a new culture or celebration as they go!
Reminder that it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money to make it memorable and special. It’s all in how you package it. Create a simple coupon on Canva’s website and print it out. Wrap it up in a gift packaged with supplies for the event.
3. Tickets to a Show or Game
We’re lucky to have so much world class entertainment right in our backyard: musicals, children’s theater, concerts, sports, and touring events and performances. You can find an event for any age and interest.
Make a whole package of it by including DIY “coupons” for a meal or snack and drink at the venue, a clear fanny pack or bag to bring, and any other supplies you might need for the event.
4. An Activity Kit or Craft
Pick a science experiment, STEM project, craft, or recipe to try together. Not only can you gift a fun experience, but also quality time together. The other cool thing is that most of these projects are either useful or consumable, meaning they won’t lay around the house.
We have used National Geographic boxes in the past and enjoyed those a lot. KiwiCo has some great STEM activities, and some are even available at Target now.
It doesn’t even necessarily have to be an established kit. Bake some sugar cookies then decorate them together. Build a gingerbread house. Teach the kids in your life a special skill you know, like kitting or painting. Gather the items you need and watch a YouTube video to teach you how to make or do something.
5. Lessons or Classes
What about lessons that match your kids’ interests? Dance lessons, joining a sports team, scratch or STEM classes, cooking, sewing, etc? Check out a local small business, your town’s parks and recreation department, or a big brand store to see what lessons are offered. If you’re looking for something to unwrap, add items they’ll need for the classes, like cleats for soccer or paint brushes for art.
One of my favorite birthdays ever included a series of ballet-themed gifts (including a dance bag, leotard, and shoes) leading up to the news that I was signed up for ballet lessons. It was so thoughtful, and involved things I’d actually need for the class. It was years and years ago (and the only dancing I do these days is at home with my kids), but I still treasure that moment.
6. A Magazine or Box Subscription
Why get one gift when you can get a gift every month? My brother got our kids a subscription box for snacks from around the world, and it’s been a HIT this year. Every month we get a box of salty and sweet snacks from a different county, and usually we try them out while watching a movie.
There is a subscription box for everyone these days: food, activities, clothing, toys, STEM kits. Pro-tip: order in advance, so your first box comes early, and you can wrap it up and gift it on Christmas Day. (Just make sure you use the right address, or else change it afterwards.)
Magazines are a good option as well. (Highlights Magazine is a good one with stories, games, activities and craft ideas.) There are even a few great free ones to explore: LEGO Magazine, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library with free books (ages 5 and under), and more.
7. Consumable Items
Give them something they’ll use up! Put together a package of snacks, bake their favorite cookies, or make an ice cream bar basket or movie night kit.
Alternatively, you could grab craft items like crayons and coloring books, paints and canvases, play dough and cookie cutters. Or consider bath or personal care items: bath bombs or crayons, shower gel, lotion, and soaps.
For tots, we’ve always much appreciated kits like Crayola Color Wonder markers and coloring books, or Melissa and Doug Water Wow! Books (not exactly a consumable, as it’s made to be used over and over), but both are portable and mess-free.
8. Something They Need (But Also Wouldn’t Normally Get)
In the classic movie A Christmas Story, you might remember the two main character kids tearing off the gift wrapping of a package to find socks. They look at each other, and immediately toss the socks over their shoulders. Your kids might feel the same way about more practical gifts. (Even though I’m way more excited about practical presents than I used to be!)
But…they could use some new shoes. And it would be nice to put the money towards something useful.
Do practical with a bit of a spin: new sneakers that light up and have their favorite characters on them. Gather up snow gear and add on a few snow toys. Get them a hoodie that makes them look like their favorite superhero.
I love making my kids happy and struggle every year not to get absolutely everything they request. But I’m learning that it is possible to share the giving, delight, and rejoicing with our kids this holiday season without overdoing it on “stuff” we don’t want or need. These “clutter-less” gift ideas will inspire your creativity and give you plenty of opportunities to spend time with and connect to your kids (without losing that Christmas magic).
PIN THIS!
Read more of Jenn’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.
