I don’t know about your kids, after one clean up I feel my kids have more than enough “stuff”. This year, in an attempt to corral the focus on toys and things, we have decided to gift experiences instead. This movement has been building momentum in the past couple of years and I think our family is ready to jump on board. Examples of different experiences include, but are not limited to classes (ahem… Artworks), ice skating, sporting events, movies, theatre tickets, concerts, restaurants (last year we gifted an American girl doll tea at Tyson’s Corner), vacations, you name it, I bet there is a gift card available. A great source of inspiration is Groupon, Living Social, and Certifikid.
What to do about gifts under the tree or Menorah? We all love the feeling of watching the joy on our children’s face as they see all the goodies about to be devoured. Instead of more plastic “made in China stuff”, how about books, art supplies, games for the Xbox or Wii, or even clothing?
Still not ready to convert? How about giving some hand-made gifts? One of my personal favorites is paper white bulbs in a beautiful vase, this might not fly with the kiddos but it is a fantastic party gift.
However your family decides to give this season, we wish you health, happiness, and joy. Happy Holidays!