I can't be the only parent that simply can't with the toys on Christmas! Missing pieces, painful Legos and irritating yet repetitive sounds all scorch my grits! I find that my kids play with them one day and toss them the next. When I realized this was happening, I decided to be very strategic with our gift-giving to ensure we were purchasing things that would be consistently used. We started this a couple years back and it couldn't be more wonderful. Thoughtful gifting saves money, eliminates impulse buying and ensures that items are utilized beyond the day...Here are a few tips towards making your Christmas shopping count!
1. Consider gifting classes! Our children are little people with interests and are on the road to discovery. Participating in classes helps them create new experiences and gives them hands-on experience in activities that may become hobbies later! There are many out-of-the-box classes that can be taken and are many times flexible to start. All ages can benefit from this gift idea!
2. Purchase additions for gadgets that are already used! For example: Getting new games for a pre existing console is a great gift that will get continuous use. Games can be easily stored and deliver hours of fun over time.
3. Talk to extended family. Make sure everyone is on the same page to limit the toys for your child and encourage them to gift experiences, learning resources or toys that come complete with storage.
4. Pick gifts that are in line with their hobbies! I'd much rather hear a new song my daughter wrote than a broken siren on a toy firetruck, lol! Gifting instruments, sewing machines, building sets and STEM gadgets are all great ways to accomplish this. You'll definitely see your money hard at work!
Finally, If this years hottest toys are on the minis' list this year, consider doing a "Christmas Clean" at the beginning of December. This is where you can et together as a family and pull toys that are in good, working condition and donate them to a shelter and or drive of your choice. This is a great way to keep the house toy count down and assists your children in learning simple ways to give, thus building amazing little humans!
Happy shopping!