The holiday season is quickly approaching and if you want to make sure that you’re checking everyone’s requests off your list, you’ll need to start shopping early! Workforce and supply-chain issues with manufacturers, USPS services, and delivery couriers will significantly hinder our shopping experience this year.

As a military family with three children, we have to be mindful of the things we bring into our home. Our space is limited, and the possibility of moving is always on the horizon.

We strive for a Montessori-based toy system in our home. I’d love to say we’ve implemented the one-in-one-out rule but sadly, we have not. Luckily for baby James, he is the only boy in the home, and he has been spoiled with many new toys. The girls, on the other hand, don’t require many toys. Our primary focus is to gift them experiences. Whether that be music lessons, dance class, or even a trip to Disney World.

Here are some tips, ideas, and motivation for helping you get that Christmas to-do list done and are sure to bring a smile to your little one’s faces.

Lessons

Lessons are a great way to be able to experience something new. For an added experience, we have even gifted ballet outfits along with a corresponding book to be opened (because we all know kids love opening gifts).

Learning Toys 

Montessori type style toys do not have to break the bank. I look for something durable, serves multi-purposes, and is aesthetically pleasing. We have been loving toys from The Manhattan Toy Company, both girls bring their Baby Stella along when we go on road trips.

Gift Cards 

Amazon is of course one of the most popular gift cards available. But there are so many to choose from, that you’re bound to find just the perfect one for your kiddo. Cards can be gifted for streaming apps or music, a favorite clothing store, or even toy store. For my older daughter, we have gifted her with a gift card to be used on her tablet to purchase fun little additions to the games that she plays.

Subscriptions 

Why not give a gift that keeps on giving year-round? Subscriptions are a great way to do this, whether it is a magazine, a craft box, or STEM sets that arrive every month for your little scientist. Lena’s aunt gifted her a Lovevery block set for her birthday one year and she absolutely loved it. Lovevery has one of the best subscription services I have seen, Digital subscriptions are a great idea too, such as ABC Mouse for young kids to Disney Plus (with games for a tablet) for the older ones, available for subscription.

Memberships

Another great gift idea for your kids is memberships. Zoos, museums, aquariums, amusement parks, water parks, etc. all provide membership options, and if you feel that you and your kids will go more than a couple of times per year, memberships easily pay for themselves. Many of these are kid specific as well, such as children’s museums, and are a great place for learning. 

Family Photo Shoot

A little outside-the-box, but still a fun gift idea, is booking a family photoshoot. Pick a photographer, set a date, and find a location you love, such as the beach, a park, or even your backyard! Your kiddos will have a great time and you’ll end up with pictures and memories that will last a lifetime!

Volunteer Opportunities

Again, not a typical gift idea, but the value for your kids could be immense. There are countless age-appropriate opportunities to volunteer for kids, either on their own if they’re old enough, or with you. Working with disadvantaged communities, such as the homeless, tutoring younger kids, volunteering in community cleanups, visiting assisted living homes, or volunteering at an animal shelter are just a few ideas. They’ll learn the importance of giving and helping others, which will benefit them for life.

Financial Contributions

Not many kids would pick a finance-based gift over toys, but it will be of much more long-term value, and may even spark some curiosity for them. 529 plans (for college), setting up a custodial account, or even gifting gold or silver bullion coins could lead to the start of a profitable hobby for a child! 

Gift giving to children doesn’t always have to be about toys. Kids will always love the thrill of ripping apart wrapping paper to reveal a long-sought-after treasure, but the holidays are a perfect opportunity to provide a gift that will have meaning for months – or years – to come. 

Do you have any other tips or recommendations? Let’s connect on Instagram you can fid me @sincerely.schwartz

Sincerely,Schwartz