The holidays are coming up fast, and your kids are probably putting the finishing touches on their letters to Santa. Kids love getting toys and gifts for Christmas, but the pleasure is short-lived, then they move on to the next greatest thing when they're done playing with their Christmas toys.
One of the hardest things you have to teach your children is that Christmas isn't just about the presents. But how can a child grasp that concept when all of their friends are getting the latest and greatest toys? We get caught up in the comparison game, and it's not fun for anyone involved.
The greatest things you can give your children aren't things - they're experiences and memories that they will hold with them forever. Here are 10 meaningful things you can give them this Christmas instead of toys:
1. An opportunity to serve
Teach your kids about people who are less fortunate, and get them excited about doing something to help. Volunteer somewhere with your whole family for an eye-opening experience, or put on your own Sub For Santa. Find a family in your area who could use a little help with gifts this Christmas, and let your kids help shop for them.
When you doorbell-ditch the gifts to the family you chose, your children will feel something. They'll always remember helping a family in need, and they'll realize how important it is to help others.
2. A class they've been wanting to take
If your little one has been wanting to take dance, art, gymnastics or any sport classes, Christmas is the perfect time to gift them the classes. Give them the supplies they'll need to start, then hand them a paper with the class information on it. They'll be so excited, they'll learn a new skill and they'll be able to keep taking the class throughout the year.
3. A pass or membership
If you live near an aquarium, amusement park, a zoo or museum, a season pass or membership would be the perfect gift. Your child will be able to visit often throughout the year, and they'll be able to have multiple experiences on their visits that they'll remember forever.
4. A trip to Disneyland
This can get a little pricey, but the memories made are honestly priceless. Surprise your kids with a Disneyland trip and take them during the holiday season (now through January 7, 2018). Every inch of the park is decked out in holiday decor, and your kids will remember the incredible experience forever.
You can also turn the trip into a learning experience. Festival of Holidays is going on in California Adventure, and it celebrates different cultural holiday celebrations. Your little ones can do crafts to learn about the different holidays, like Navidad and Diwali, while you can sample amazing food and watch some great entertainment.
5. Tickets to an event
One of my most memorable Christmases was when my grandparents gave me tickets to a Taylor Swift concert. I was SO excited, and I was able to experience the concert with my cousins. I wouldn't trade that memory for anything.
Give your kids tickets to something they've been wanting to see, like a play, an orchestra, a sporting event or a concert. It'll give them something to look forward to and an amazing memory.
6. Camping gear
Give your kids a tent, some sleeping bags and supplies for s'mores. They'll be so excited to use the camping gear, and you can create amazing memories camping as a family. Even better, let them set up the tent in the living room or backyard every once in a while - they'll look back on those memories with fondness.
7. A "date night" with mom and dad
Every child loves a little one-on-one time with their parents, so it would be the perfect Christmas gift. Plan a fun date with your child and make them feel special the whole night. It'll mean the world to them to have a few hours of undivided attention from both parents.
8. A trip to the local pottery shop
If you live close to a pottery shop, give your kids the opportunity to create something there. Pottery is something every child should try at least once, and it's so fun for them to be able to create something they can take home and use.
9. A voucher for a movie night
Who doesn't love a good movie night? Load a movie gift card, give them some candy and take them to a movie they've been dying to see. You can even take it a step further and let them purchase the tickets, buy popcorn and choose the seats themselves. They'll feel so special!
10. A fun party
Kids LOVE parties, but throwing them can be a serious hassle. Tell your child they can invite whoever they want and you'll throw them an awesome party. Let them help plan it, choose the theme and hand out the invitations. The party will be such a fun memory for them to look back on.
When you give your children experiences instead of things, they'll have priceless memories to cherish for the rest of their lives.
