Today’s question is from Ariel:
We have three children ages 3, 2, and 1. We also have extended family that enjoys giving abundantly (a.k.a spoiling!) at Christmas. My husband and I want to encourage our children to live lives of giving and “living on less”, but we don’t want without take the gift-giving opportunity away from our family. Practically speaking though, we have way too many toys.
Besides clothing, books for homeschooling, and art supplies, are there any unique gifts or gift ideas I can suggest to family members?
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Robyn says
My in-laws are very reasonable; my mom tries to be reasonable but gets a little carried away. If it’s too much, sometimes I can suggest she keep some of the toys at her house for the kids to play with there.
Other things you might consider are audiobooks (we have Beatrix Potter stories, Chronicles of Narnia, Hank the Cowdog, etc.), radio dramas (specifically, we like Adventures in Odyssey), and music (I’m planning to get some of the Wee Sing sets for our kids this year, and they love the Slugs & Bugs CDs and the “Teach Them The Faith” catechism set to music, and classical music in general). You might also consider good quality DVDs. For our family birthday present this year we bought a set of DVDs of Leonard Bernstein’s Young People’s Concerts, because our sons love classical music. They’re a little over the kids’ heads for right now (ages 4 and 2), but they enjoy the concert part of the program and I’m sure we’ll watch the series several times as they get older and also use it as a foundational part of a homeschooling unit on music. I’m not real big on electronic entertainment for kids overall, but there’s some really good stuff out there if you look for it. I’ve also put a few classic musicals on my Amazon wish list, some of which we’d probably let the oldest watch with us (Music Man?).
Jessica-MomForHim says
A membership to your local children’s museum is fun all year long, or a magazine subscription!
Amanda says
wow – there are so many good suggestions already – but something I did not see as I scanned through these is monthly boxes. I have just discovered these and I think they look like so much fun. They are a little costly, but if parents/grandparents are gonna spend that much anyway……The boxes come in the mail every month and have craft projects and supplies in them. I know you can probably do all of them yourself, but I know my kids love getting mail and this way its all right there for you 🙂
Andrea says
Not sure if this has been mentioned yet – One year we received a gift membership to a nearby Children’s Museum. It was wonderful!!! If we wanted to get out and not spend a dime we would run to the museum and hang out for hours. A couple times my husband would take the kids and I caught up on things around the house. It has been two years since and my kids still ask if we have been given another “museum gift.” 🙂
Tracy @ usingtimewisely.com says
A Christmas ornament with the year on it. My children are ages 7, 5, and 2. Each year they get a dated ornament for their Christmas tree. My kids love to look and display their ornaments year after year. We also get a family ornament for our big tree. It is a fun tradition we enjoy. Merry Christmas!
Carmen says
My little one will be turning two this weekend, so we have a couple of chances for family to give her presents in a matter of weeks. I suggested educational (non-electronic) toys. I know they’re pricey, but my daughter loves Tegu magnetic blocks. Other items I suggested: an apron and small rolling pin (she loves to “help” in the kitchen), a sleeping bag (something familiar to sleep in at Grandma’s house), bath crayons, a little chair. We personally love Veggie Tales in our house but only have a couple of DVDs so that was on the list too. I also added a fishing rod (no reel) as she will want to go fishing with the bigger kids next summer.
HaLee says
Listening station (CD player with cassette) and headphones. Books/stories on CD can be added for years to come. Cooking classes at a community center. The new fancy shoes your kids may want? (My twins are 5 and have been obsessed with the latest and greatest shoes since they could walk!) Digital camera with a gift card for picture prints at Costco or other local printing place. I have found that they love to take their own pictures, print, and make albums. So much to be learned in the process. (Theme albums, collection pictures, family pictures. They can then make album gifts for others, too.)
trisha says
cool looking plates/sippy cups.
How about an ornament for the tree? I always get an ornament each year for each kid. They will be able to take these with them once they are out on their own. I personally try to find ones that the kids are into at their time of life. We have robots, trains, spiderman, barbie, polar express bell, etc. My kids absolutely love their tote of ornaments and get to put their special ones on by themselves. Makes putting up the tree extra special seeing them smile and hearing them talk about their ornaments.
furniture etc they can use to store their toys in?
Special snacks/drinks?
How about a piggy bank?
Mary Helen says
We like to ask for “services” – like dance lessons, music class, zoo membership, etc. That way the fun lasts all year long and so does the FUN…all without cluttering up the house! And it is usually money that you would be spending anyway, so it is nice for the parents, too 🙂
Michelle says
What about an ice cream maker if your family enjoys frozen treats? It night not be something you’d splurge on yourself, I know I haven’t for our family, but the kids could enjoy it year round, and you could turn it in to a science lesson as well. 🙂
Julie says
One year I made “bubble magnets” which was very popular with the 2-year olds (who were done with putting things in their mouths). Also, I think Crystal posted something for making your own magnetic paper dolls. I think those would be a hit too.
Karen says
When my nieces and nephew were young, we would take them roller skating as their Christmas present. We usually did it the week after Christmas when some children are experiencing a let down after all the pre-Christmas excitement. I know you’re children are too young for this, but maybe you can suggest other activities. They get the gift of time and making of memories from the people who love them.
Kristin says
We had grandparents go into together and buy a swing set. I have also asked for bedding.
Kari says
I didn’t read all the comments so I don’t know if these have been suggested or not but we love to get gifts the whole family can use together. How about a season pass to your local zoo, aquarium, children’s museum or theme park? These gifts literally give all year long and if you are homeschooling passes to the zoo, aquarium and children’s museum double as being able to be used for school too! Also fun are family nights out, ie: a night out for pizza and then a kid friendly movie, a night spent at a local hotel (think staycation style!), bowling and then ice cream sundaes, etc. Ask your family members to help you create memories with your family instead of just giving your children things that will make messes and will probably be broken in a couple of months! Have a Merry Christmas!!
Debrah says
One idea I haven’t seen mentioned yet is cooking or cleaning things for the kids. It may sound crazy to some, and not all grandparents will go for it, but getting each child a set of real cooking tools and a child’s cookbook is an open invitation for a lot of fun in the kitchen, even for boys. (Mollie Katzen makes a great cookbook with recipes in pictures for the kids to “read” themselves.) for the younger ones think mixing bowl, wooden spoons, toaster tongs,and veggie scrubber. For the oldest you can get plastic lettuce knives (they can’t get really hurt with them), spreaders, measuring cups and spoons, and maybe a baking tray. You could also get or make a chef’s hat to go with them. They might also enjoy some “felt food” so they can pretend play even when they aren’t actually cooking. As to the cleaning stuff, dust cloths, empty squirt bottle (kids can safely use a vinegar solution), glass cleaning cloth, scrub brush, small pail, etc. (if you have girls with long hair include a bandana to keep it out of the way!). My boys clean both their room and the bathroom, and while I had to supervise while they were smaller, they really enjoyed parts of it. Spraying the cleaning solution and wiping up after were the favorite parts.
Another idea might be magazine subscriptions. There are some great ones for little ones.
Katie says
I always ask for the next size up in shoes for my girls. Shoes are so expensive for toddlers! Especially when they outgrow them so fast!
Karin says
Let me add, I don’t think it’s rude at all to suggest gifts. If family have specific things they really want to give that’s fine. But I know plenty of families that send out “We’ve had many people ask us what Jane and Joe may want for the Holidays, here a few suggestions:c
This works well if the child has given a santa type list
My sister is law does a great job of this, shell suggest a few ideas you my parents, to her parents, to us, and to her sister. BUT she doesn’t give everyone the same list (so both sets of grandparents or aunts/uncles aren’t all working off the same list. She suggested the cash register idea to me (with a few others as options), BUT suggested different things to her sister. Works our marvelously.
Karin says
My brother asked, for his 3 yr old, a basic cash register toy with money, fake credit cards, etc. They’re trying to teach their 3 yr old how money works, isn’t unlimited, etc.
Heather says
When my sister was living overseas, she didn’t want to pay for lots of shipping for a present and wanted something that kept on giving. She got my then 2 year old a subscription to Ranger Rick Jr. It has wonderful, large pictures of animals and short stories that held her attention. My daughter was so excited to get her own mail each month! We enjoyed that for several years and now are taking some time off. Any magazine subscription for kids, Highlights, Clubhouse, Clubhouse Jr., Ranger Rick, etc. are a fun gift for young ones and easy to give to little ones far away. 🙂
Suzanne says
I just wrote a summary of some of our favorite “brain-stretching and body movin'” gift ideas. I try to be purposeful in the games/toys that we give and ask grandparents to give to our boys. Hope it’s helpful! http://suzanneshares.com/2012/11/21/brain-stretching-and-body-movin-christmas-gift-ideas-for-kids/
Suzanne says
And…I would also recommend Seeds Family Worship cds http://suzanneshares.com/2012/11/21/seeds-family-worship-free-download-25-off-coupon-code/
Christy says
My boys are 3, 2, and 6 months. My in-laws do zoo membership, and my parents contribute to their 529 for birthdays.
Last year for Christmas, my parents gathered huge boxes from an appliance store and made a giant fort in their living room! The boys had a fantastic time playing during our stay (they’re out of town), made great memories, and we didn’t add to our toy clutter at home. Great gift!
Melissa says
I think that setting up a College Fund (in Texas it’s Called 529 Plan) I’m not sure where you live but I can assure you that your state offers something similar. You are able to use if for your child when they reach of age and if they do not plan on going to college then you can hold on to it and transfer it to a grandchild. I wish I had done something like this when mine were little. Another idea is a Roth IRA account you can contribute annually to “under their name” or a Universal Life Insurance Policy that they can “cash” out at the age of 18 to use for college.
I have one in college graduating in May and one entering college in August—it’s expensive—very expensive. You do not want to take out loans—cash is KING!!!
Christina says
This is not a gift idea, but you could help keep the toys under control by having your kids pick one toy to give away for every toy they receive. Then they would learn about giving to those in need, plus their toys wouldn’t multiply.
shannon says
Lots of comments and not sure what others have shared
I love the consumable gifts…..swimming or gymnastics lessons, passes to zoo, museum or other local attractions that kids love.
Maybe a grandma loves to bake and she invents the cookie of the club month, where she brings them a dozen cookies once a month (maybe hard for young kids to ‘get it’ but older ones sure will)
Certificates to favorite restaurants….
So many fun consumable options…..
L says
This is such a hard question and I have read through everyone’s replies. I do give a list of needs and suggestions for my 3 yr old twins, but my MIL does not want to stick to it and wants to give “fun” toys and gifts etc. I have fought it for the last 3 years and give up, it does bother me but I can’t change her. I also don’t totally want to pull back my giving because I waited a long time for these children and want the fun of giving gifts as well. I have gotten a mix of very practical (shoes, clothes) and fun gifts for this year. I guess I agree with the purging, and still continuing to ask for experiences, $ for banks, and practical items mixed with fun.
Suzy I says
Experience gifts are awesome and they don’t take up any space! Zoo memberships, tickets to the circus or disney on ice, a trip to the aquarium, art museum, build a bear (ok that results in a toy…), zoo, music lessons, a month of gymnastics, a horse back ride, etc…. Whatever splurge trips or events you wish you could do throughout the year but seem cost prohibitive, those are good ideas for gifts!
Lisa Murphree says
magazines make wonderful gifts for children.
Lauren says
A fun thing would be for the grandparents to rent a vaction house or cabin for a couple of nights instead of giving gifts to any of the family, and enjoy some quality time with the granchildren. I also wanted to second some of the earlier thoughts and say, “Count your Blessings!” I know many families who would be thrilled for their kids to receive ANY gift from extended family or grandparents. They struggle with feeling unloved and the hurt of seeing their kids going without even a token gift. You really do have a “happy problem!”
Adrienne says
We ask the Grandparents for passes to the Zoo, Aquarium or other places we can frequent throughout the year. It is a great way to make more family memories without costing more. It is the best gift we get each year.
Carolynn @mylittlebitoflife.com says
Here is a list of our favorite toys: http://mylittlebitoflife.com/?p=2386 and http://mylittlebitoflife.com/?p=4966.
Laura says
Magazine subscriptions? Highlights has a new magazine coming out soon for toddlers, Babybug and Wild Animal Baby would be appropriate. Maybe Ranger Rick or Your Big Backyard? It wouldn’t be clutter and would be fun mail to receive.
Kim T. says
family memberships are great – to the zoo, aquarium, science center, etc.
lessons – swimming, ballet, tumbling, music together
sponsoring a child in another country through world vision in your child’s name
coin collection books
gift certificate to a pet store to buy supplies for a pet throughout the year
Becka says
Some grandparents I know have a tradition of giving each grandchild a piece from a very nice nativity set each year for Christmas. When they are ready to establish their own homes they have a complete set. If space is an issue perhaps the grandparents could keep the pieces in their home and give them to the child when they are ready to leave the nest.
Christie says
A lot of great ideas are given here. I just wanted to throw in my perspective. If your family just really, really wants to buy toys, just put some things away for a while and pull them out as they get bored throughout the year. It really is such a short time where kids even want toys when you think about it. Soon enough they will be teenagers and everything they want will be $200+. Enjoy it while they’re little.
Michelle says
One of my favorite gifts is a family membership to a Family Museum. Most have reciprical museums in other states as well so if you go on a trip you can use it there, possibly. It is great when it is too hot or cold for the park, but you need to get out of the house!
Susan says
I agree with Carrie’s post above. I think we need to teach our children to be gracious receivers as well as gracious givers.
When anyone in my extended family asks for gift ideas for my child for Christmas or her birthday, I will happily respond with suggestions. But I wouldn’t dream of asking them for something specific unless they inquired. Some people truly love to give their grandchildren toys at Christmas, and by refusing them, or making requests as to what gifts you want, reduces their joy.
I don’t donate or regift anything from our family right away. I don’t necessarily keep these items forever — children outgrow toys soon enough after all, at which time it’s totally fine to get rid of them. But I don’t immediately get rid of something was given to my child in love.
I can understand the author wanting to avoid more toys, but if you occasionally purge the toy collection, it won’t build up. If you expect that your child will receive a lot of new toys from grandparents or other relatives at Christmas, how about making room for them by getting rid of older toys that your children no longer play with? You never know what a young child will end up just loving — maybe they will really like that new toy from Grandma. Over the years, my daughter has received many toys as gifts. Most got minimal attention (including many that I myself bought), but some were worth their weight in gold because she got much play out of them.
Beth says
When my children were that age, my mom made them a small suitcase full of dress up clothes…nurse/doctor, king/queen, party/wedding type dress, etc. Imaginative play is great for kids! Also, I suggested to relatives that they give quality books and wooden puzzles. The grandmas even read a few of the books on a tape the kids could listen to along with the book.
Jay says
McDonald’s gift certificates are always popular! They are inexpensive, and involve an exciting trip, especially if they have a Playland! A $5 gift card could be five different trips the golden arches!
Allison says
It’s not your family’s fault you have too many toys. I think it’s rude to suggest gifts unless they ask. Just rotate the toys available for your kids to play with and let your family enjoy giving.
Susan says
I agree. If there was a “like” button” here, I’d click it. I wrote a longer post trying to say the same thing, but I appreciate your candor.
jennifer says
why not? I think it equally rude to get rid of something someone got you or your kids. Grandmom spent a few hundred on the presents and she is on a limited budget. She is angry if you ask to “reel it in” so whats the option? take back and buy toilet paper? I think thats more offensive.
For me I just am limiting what I get my child and I guess it makes me a kittle sad, I dont buy her a lot and I want to have fun with the gifts too but with everything coming from grandma I really cant unless I want her to open a zillion things christmas morning
Kaitlin says
My parents got my son a savings bond for his bday and Christmas. He is 17 months and I think it’s the perfect gift. They are going to do this for every bday until he is 18. We are going to start doing the same thing and so are my in laws. We figured up that he would have nearly $6000 by the time he goes to college. Not enough for college at all, but it sure will be a nice chunk of change he can use for that purpose.
I also asked for “gift baskets” this year. Think “cooking basket,” “art basket,” etc. This way all of the things you get can be very useful on a day to day basis (that is if you cook with you kids or do a lot of art projects.)
I also love the experience gift ideas. Zoo passes, children’s museums, national parks, gymnastics, dance, art classes, etc are all wonderful ideas.
Lea Stormhammer says
How about things like this (incidentally all these are things our kids have gotten in the last few years – they’re 7 now, but some they’ve gotten since they were 1):
new backpack
slippers
pajamas
books
sheets
fun pillowcases
book lights (for reading in bed – this works only now that they can read)
books on CD (we do a lot of car traveling and this is great for all of us)
board games for the whole family
shoes/boots
sleds (we live in MN)
Memberships (zoo, science museum, children’s museum, etc.)
Art supplies
We live in the next state over from my in-laws and my parents live on the other side of the country. My MIL comes to visit 2x a year and takes the kids to a local water park and to McDonald’s for lunch – they only go with her. She’ll send us $5 coupon booklets for each kid for McDonalds for birthdays and christmas so we can treat the kids to ice cream and they can play. We usually go once for ice cream and once for lunch between her two visits, using the coupon booklets to pay.
My parents do a lot of international travel and missionary work so they usually buy something little where they go for each of the children – a book with local tales if they can find one, hat, mittens, socks, christmas tree ornament, jewelry for my daugther, and my son has a hippo collection so they sometimes find things with hippos (especially when they go to Africa) for him. Usuaully it’s either an ornament or something useful (socks, mittens or hat).
Hope that’s helpful!
Lea
Amanda L says
We are getting to the same point and we only have one. Memberships are great. A big family gift can also be fun. If the family insists on updating the toy collection, ask them to also donate time in the spring to help you pare down by going to consignment or doing a yard sale. That cash could go into savings or college funds if family doesn’t want to contribute to them as a gift.
Emily says
My aunt once gave my family a season pass to the national parks. Passes to a park or children’s museum near you could be a great experience gift.
cindy says
membership to a children’s museum.
Katie says
MUSEUM PASSES. Best gift we’ve received from my parents! We go to the Science Museum at least once a month, and we pay a little for parking each time but that’s it. (Art museums, aquariums, they’re all great!)
Bethany says
My kids are 5, 4, and 3. When they were 3, 2, and 1 like yours, i was happy to get whatever they got, even though it was always excessive from the generous grandparents and other family. But being so young, theyre really not going to notice if you hide away some or most of the gifts and pull them out here and there throughout the year. I always rotated everything and seized opportunities to give the toys they were tired of to friends or charities. Win-win for everyone.
Sarah says
We have this same problem…however, as many times as I have asked, begged, pleaded–you name it with grandparents, they get offended when we let them know that our kids (age 4, 2, & 9mo) have waay too many toys (all of which have been purchased by grandparents. I have asked for zoo/museum memberships and dancing/gymnastic classes, but they ague that those things are gifts an the kids won’t know what a piece of paper is when they open them. And they won’t just give money for savings either. We’ve even “threatened” that we were going to start donating the kids’ Christmas presents for boys an girls who don’t have any and then they got mad and wouldn’t talk to us for weeks. Grandparents live 12 hours away and they came to visit one day in early fall and asked where some specific toys were that they had bought the children this past Christmas I was just plain blunt and told them I sold them in a garage sale we had in the spring. They got soo mad I thought they were going to get in the car and drive the 12 hours home right away. I am at such a loss at how to address this situation. My eldest daughter who is 4 recently has been telling me “Mom, it’s not good to have all of this stuff.” And I’m like —“yeah, no kidding.”
Amanda says
We have had this problem too. The thing that worked for us was telling them that instead of toys the kids really wanted to spend time with their grandparents. Now whenever they come for their annual visit, they take the kids out by themselves to do whateveractivity the kids suggest. They make memories, grandparents are still spending money on the kids, & Mom and Dad get a few hours to ourselves. 🙂 Hope that helps!
Kari says
One of the things my mom did to combat this was to wrap the paper membership or membership card with something the child could use immediately! So when she got us zoo memberships she wrapped them with a shirt for each child with our zoo logo on it! They knew immediately what the gift was (a zoo membership) but they had a shirt to wear right away. You could also wrap up a membership with a new stuffed animal. I guess I’m just lucky I have a very creative mom 🙂
Carlene says
Are their some kind of treats ( juice boxes, fruit snacks, special cereals) that your children like that could be given.
My children liked those kinds of things when they were little and we didn’t have the money for them. THey were the kinds of things I liked them to get. It isn’t clutter and they can enjoy them for a while.
Kristi says
Family membership to a local zoo or children’s museum. Pay for a one night stay at an indoor watermark.
Lauren says
My girls loved receiving new hooded bath towels in cute colors/patterns. Theirs were homemade (by sewing a matching hand towel onto a bath towel) but I’m sure you could buy them also.
Amy says
*How about a zoo or children’s museum pass? When these are purchased, a family can enjoy not only a local one, but also many more on an extended trip.
*How about a collection? Videos or CDs or such, like Patch the Pirate or Disney or something else your family likes?
*What about time? Having the family members commit to time together? A monthly meal or playdate?
Margaret says
We usually ask family members for money towards experiences. A yearly pass to our local zoo- $100. Swimming lessons for a month- $60. Ballet class at the community center- $35. This helps us afford these things and the kids get to enjoy them all year round!
Krissy @ Just Take Two Bites says
I second (and third, and fourth!) the experience gifts. We have three boys 5, 2, and 4 months. We have all the toys we could ever use and then some. We always get them zoo and aquarium memberships, children’s museum tickets, and things like that. This year, we are focusing on giving them outdoor toys. We got a basketball goal and balls, bikes, baseball bats and balls, etc. We did this because our family is very generous and gets them plenty of clothes and toys. We also like to get things like play dough, crayons, markers, pencils, note pads, paint sets, and anything else they can use up.
angi@schneiderpeeps says
I haven’t read all the responses but I think I probably have a little bit different take then most people. I think it’s wonderful that your family wants to bless your children abundantly at Christmas. Since you your oldest is now 3 and you know this trend will probably continue maybe you could think about getting rid of some of the toys you already have that really aren’t favorites. Also, keep in mind throughout the year that your children probably don’t need to get very many toys even if they’re only .25 at a garage sale. This will help you feel lessed stressed as the gifts start rolling in come next December.
That said, I do have a few ideas…
1. photo book of relatives that they don’t see very often. My mother in law made a little homemade photo book for my 3 year old using ziplock bags over pictures, ribbon and carstock. There were pictures of my daughter with different relatives that she only sees 4-5 times a year. Each photo was labeled with who was in the picture. My daughter loves this!
2. Books. Caldecott Award book. Classic picture books. Dr. Suess. Favorite books from their childhood.
3. Outside toys… balls, slides, sand box, bikes, etc. If shipping is an issue, maybe they can give you the money and you can get the actual gift and label from the giver.
4. piggy bank
5. bean bags for “relaxing”
6. What’s in the Bible and Veggie Tales dvd
7. Adventures in Odyssey audio cds
jessica says
my Grandmother would give us savings bonds. It didn’t necessarily Pay for college. But it helped to have something there. with the cost of living only skyrocketing it might not hurt to do this. With your’s being so young, I’m sure they’d save a whole lot more than I did since she didn’t start until I was a teen.
If you have no faith in out current government and anticipate a collapse, there are other options like possibly a CD?? or opening a mutual fund? Gold / silver pieces and a nifty safe to keep it in,would definitely be worth something either way.
additionally, could consider gift cards , save them. and let the little ones spend them like their money , not just for the next great toy that comes out, but on gifts for other people. or being a big kid and helping the house hold by purchasing their own socks or milk or something. My daughter’s always loved to be able to buy something to help me or show me they were big kids , I wish I would have fostered it better. But it still comes out , and not a bad trait for them to have or learn.
chris says
Cds are a government back products too. If they government does fail wheat, beans, and ammo might be the best gifts even for babies.
Seriously, EE bonds were my default first birthday gift for years but they are s pain since you can not buy them at the bank anymore.
Sarah T. says
We asked for Play Silks this year. They are 35″ squares of colored silk, but become whatever their imagination allows. Capes, headwear, skirts, togas, etc. They can learn to juggle with them, create games- anything to let their imagination run wild.
McDonald’s gift cards are a hit since they have a play place, as well as Chick-fil-a.
A bunked bed with playhouse underneath?
Small trampoline with enclosure (larger than an exercise one).
Swings you can hang from the basement ceiling for winter play.
Nicole says
I don’t know if this is correctly answering the question but i bought alot of my gifts this year and last year used. We don’t have alot of money but I have a one year old and a 2 year old son and i’ve got plenty of gifts for them and I’ve hardly spent any thing. We got a tricycle for the two year old at goodwill and most of the other gifts I got at a thrift store we go that has bag sales for 5 dollars..anything that ftits! They don’t know the difference because they are little 🙂
Anna says
Games that they can play together. I always like the Elefun game. 🙂 I think even a one year old could enjoy watching it. My MIL just got us a little fabric animal bowling set too that the kids seem to enjoy playing with even though they don’t quite get the concept of bowling. They’re soft and have bells inside that make them fun for the little kids.
Maybe you could suggest everyone help you save up for a larger gift too like an outdoor play set or something. There’s a site SmartyPig that lets people do that I think though I’ve never tried it.
Carrie says
First I’d like to say that my mother would be furious & my MIL would be deeply hurt if we asked them not to give the children gifts. While I can’t control their feelings, I can be aware of them and respond in kindness. Both of our moms (and dads!) have “giving gifts” as a love language and to say “thanks, but no thanks” would offend them deeply. They want to give out of kindness not to make my life more stuff-filled. I actually think it’d be really selfish of me to ask them not to give (when they want to) and to ask my children not to receive (and you know they want to!).
That being said: consumables, consumables, consumables. And that doesn’t just apply to food stuffs!! Stuff I hate spending money on like stickers, temporary tattoos, ridiculously expensive candy in the shape of light sabers, etc is perfect for grandparents! I also recommend asking for stuff that’s there’s “never too much of” like Legos or fancy t-shirts with their favorite characters on them.
angi@schneiderpeeps says
great response. Gift giving is not just about the receiver, it’s also about the giver.
Amanda says
Great response-I’m in a similar situation. I do ask my parents and in-laws to remember that I have a small house when considering gifts. They would love to buy things like activity tables and big train sets but we really do not have the room-they are good about choosing smaller toys.
Ac says
I definitely understand that people can have hurt feelings and agree that we want to teach our children to receive gifts graciously. I’ve also experienced the other side, though. One set of in-laws buys things every year that our kids don’t need and don’t have room for. We always write a very gracious thank you note and have never told them not to send things or had any sort of confrontation over it (we live far apart so they don’t see our home) but it’s sort of sad to know they spend so much money and we donate them to other families. Even if someone’s love language is giving gifts, they could find a way to give a gift that would actually be used and meaningful. My parents LOVE buying our kids gifts but they ask what they would like or ask about specific items they’d like to give. The good news is that our kids are also learning to give from their abundance which they really enjoy doing!
Christie says
You said EXACTLY what I was thinking!
Allison Voges says
I don’t have any family members rich enough to go bonkers, but I remember Christmas at my grampa’s house – there were literally too many presents to fit in the car! And then my mom had to figure out how to fit them in our little house! And we were given toys that my parents felt were not appropriate. Because of that, she completely respects my wishes with what I desire for my kids (not that’s it’s a problem, we see eye-to-eye anyhow). We have very few toys in comparison to most kids’ “toy rooms” and I’m very specific when extended family asks for gift ideas. I’m very grateful to have easy-going family members though, and I also have very un-materialistic kids, for which I’m also very grateful!
Sarah says
I have not had time to read through all these comments. I’m sure there are many AWESOME suggestions, but if I duplicate, forgive me.
It’s never too early to start teaching them the basics of handling money. Crown has some neat ways to do this:
http://www.crown.org/mymoneytown/
Also, giving them service gifts that they can actively participate in is something I think is valuable and that they will likely remember. Let them choose a child to sponsor through Compassion or World Vision and then drawing a picture or coloring a picture to mail to the child. Let them “help” shop to fill up shoeboxes through Operation Christmas Child or International Christian Concern or the many other ministries that do that kind of work. Doing the same through Angel Trees and/or Prison Fellowship, explaining to them about children whose parents are in jail, poor children in other countries, etc.
Let them “shop” for a gift from Compassion or World Vision’s gift catalogs: http://www.compassion.com/catalog/catalog-view-all-gifts.htm,
http://www.worldvision.org/m/give-a-gift-change-a-life-christmas/index.html?&campaign=10152558&gclid=CKDK1uiNhLQCFQsGnQoduhUATA.
Allyson @ All Our Days says
Pre-made Busy Bags would be a great gift for toddlers, especially since you homeschool. I posted a month long Busy Bag series on my blog.
sally says
We are giving each of our kids Redbox gift cards. You can buy them in increments of 5 movies ($6). With this is a note saying that these movies will be used during family movie nights. The kid whos gift card is used will get to pick the movie. 2 kids x5 movies each = 10 family movie nights. We cant wait. Note: Yes, as parents we have the right to veto any movie they chose and we deem inappropriate. Considering they are 6 and 3, their movie choices usually lean to Wiggles, Barney, etc.
Carrie says
Ask for diapers, wipes, baby shampoo, baby bath, cereal, baby snacks, kid snacks. Anything that is perishable and will save you money down the road.
Marie says
Ask grandparents to make a photo book of their families when they were children! My parents both scanned and uploaded old photos of when they were kids into online albums and identified who everyone was in captions. They printed them through one of the online photobook companies and sent them to the grandchildren. It’s a really nice present to have (for a long time!) and even one year-olds like looking at pictures, especially of babies that kind of look like them! 🙂
Autumn says
In addition to the experience gifts and memberships, my kids (4, 3, 1) love getting mail so subscriptions to Highlights, National Geographic for kids, etc. Outside toys are great too because they don’t take up room inside 🙂
Whitney says
Great question!
Some unique, helpful gifts we’ve requested/received are:
– national park passes. Our local parks often take these, so we get lots of free entrances on a year’s subscription. Our toddler loves to walk, climb, and run and this is a great way to do that for free!
– magazine subscriptions. Ranger Rick, Our Big Backyard, Ladybug, etc. Great magazine for kids and he LOVES getting mail.
– gift cards for a crafts store or a craft kit. These can be stored until the “I’m bored!”s hit. They always hit here in February when it’s too cold to do much else.
– clothing. Sometimes, it’s hard to do, but I always appreciate getting clothes for the kids, so I don’t have to buy it.
– music/learning CDs. We’ve been given several, and they’re very helpful to play during naps. Also books on tape!
– zoo/musuem memberships.
– a coupon for a monthly date with the child. My toddler would love this, especially it involved ice cream or a movie.
– a photo book that is pictures of the whole family. “This is Grandpa and this is Uncle Joey..” that kind of thing.
– an old camera or phone that they can take pictures with or learn from
– real tools like a hammer that they can learn with
– something for the yard to encourage them to playoutside!
august says
If they know how to sew or something like that, they could make TONS of gits.
My aunt, uncle, and my self all have children the same age. My aunt is married to a doctor, my uncle is a big deal with Verizon and my husband barely makes over minimum wage. Needless to say, that’s a big difference in Christmas budgets. However, it doesn’t cause any problems because we all agree that our kids are little (3) and don’t need crazy stuff. We all make things for each others children for Christmas and I have to say, it’s been GREAT! I love the gifts we exchange more than anything our other family has purchased.
This year, I’m mailing pictures to my uncle’s daughter every day of the week (she loves them!) I’m mailing handmade memory cards (pictures of the family) for my aunt’s daughter. And, my aunt is making my son a handmade fishing set (fabric fish with magnets and a wooden rod).
I would encourage them to try a hand at something your child loves. We made a giant chalkboard for our son’s room and it only cost us the cost of the paint since we had brushes and everything else on hand.
Brittany Barden says
This isn’t a specific gift idea, but something we always did growing up in my family (because we also had grandparents who liked to give lavish gifts!)
When we got Christmas/birthday/St. Patrick’s Day/Columbus Day gifts (yeaaaah, we got them ALL) from my grandparents, we had two choices.
1. We could choose to keep one gift and give the others away (either to a shelter or put them away in a gift closet to re-gift to friends, etc).
2. If we wanted to keep more than one gift, we had to choose to give away another of our toys. We could make a one-for-one swap.
My parents would explain this to our grandparents and let them know they could still give, but we might do something other than just keep alllll the gifts. 🙂
Ellen says
Oh, also – those ages are just getting to where audiobooks are AWESOME. An amazing gift for a whole family would be an mp3 player/ipod and gift cards for audible.com or itunes. My girls LOVE this so much and my three year old is already old enough to understand that she is being given ‘stories’. Music is the same way – new quality kids’ music is always welcome.
Jeannie says
Anything handmade: wooden toys, superhero capes, play aprons, etc. dress up clothes (bought on clarence post halloween), experience gifts (zoo memberships, visits to a live nativity, swim lessons, a special date with grandparents, etc)
Amy H. says
Gift certificate for a photo shoot? A combined gift of a nice outdoor play equipment? Personalized gift like bake cookies with grandma that includes a little chef hat and apron?
JW says
Our son (3) is blessed with the same problem. We have a combination approach:
–clothes and toys that go unused are returned for store credit, if possible. That credit goes towards future needs/wants for our son. It’s very handy when shoes fall apart between sales!
–unused clothes and toys that cannot be returned but are otherwise in perfect condition are donated to our local CASA.
–instead of asking relatives to temper their gift-giving, my husband and I rein ourselves back, especially on “minor” holidays (Easter, Halloween, etc.) My son does not need three Easter baskets, Halloween pails, etc. So we don’t buy any for him if the grands or other relatives are going to. Instead, we take the amount we would have spent and put it in his savings account. For birthday and Christmas, we ask for specific books, CDs, DVDs, and other things that will get long-term usage and we’ll know he’ll enjoy, but thankfully accept whatever loving friends relatives want to give him…or we’ll get him the “practical” gifts so that relatives can have the joy of giving the fun stuff of their own selection.
–if there is still a surplus of gifts, we put some up in his closet and rotate them into his toy selection when the “new” wears off some of the other toys.
Victoria says
When my kids were little I use to love receiving family passes to local attractions like the zoo or the children’s museum. Each time we went I would tell the kids “say thank you grandma” to remind them that the fact that we were going was a gift from someone they loved.
Ellen says
Our girls love play sets and that had been a big blessing from our large family. They have essentially built our wooden train set and Playmobil collection and the girls spend hours with both. Each batch of toys fits neatly into a large basket for easy tidying and clutter-free rooms.
Experience gifts are awesome, even more if the giver is part of the experience. Museum passes, art classes, gymnastics, etc.
Ordering a good magazine subscription for a year is really great too. Some examples are Highlights, Clubhouse/Clubhouse Jr, and a Highlights crafts one that my friend’s daughter loves.
Subscription craft boxes – Kiwi crate is one example. They come monthly or seasonally (or even one time) with fun crafts and everything ready to go so it is stress-free for Mom as well.
Hobby-related gifts. Our daughters zoom through art supplies, especially the oldest, so we do always list those when asked. But depending on the child’s interests, accessories for a favorite sport (say, soccer gear bag or practice ball), activity (such as a horn or light for their bike), or hobby (my daughter loves learning to cook, so special ingredients with a recipe would be a hit).
My girls are also very fascinated by the Compassion gift catalogs (there are many out there). Honestly, I think they would be pleased to receive a treat and a picture of an animal that had been given to another child in need. They are pretty enthused about choosing what to give as part of our very simple stockings-only Christmas plans.
At the ages your children are, I have found that cute practical items go over very well. My mother-in-law always brings the girls cute toothbrushes, soaps, bath sponges, etc when she visits and those are received VERY well. Slippers. A special cup/plate/bowl/spoon/fork for mealtimes. Fun toothpaste. A new hairbrush.
Family gifts. “We are all getting this” has worked very well for us – it has varied from a dog to a trip to a far-away zoo. Incorporating family into this works well.
And if they really want to do toys, the kind of toys that can be used a few times and then passed in good condition to others are nice options: puzzles, books, etc.
I tend to long for ‘simple’ in giving events and offer suggestions in that direction when asked, but I do make a point to remember that more than anything else, the relationships are worth valuing and gratitude is always the best option.
Karen says
I know it’s been said, but I agree with memberships or daily passes to museums or zoos, etc. Our kids have always loved going to museums, both children’s museums and “regular” museums, so don’t worry that your kids would be too young to enjoy it.
I have an aunt who prefers to take the kids on an outing. Last year she took my 5 year old son and 5 year old neice out to dinner and then to a musical that some other relatives were performing in. It was a great experience for the kids, who felt so grown up to be going out without Mom and Dad. It was fun for my aunt to spend time with the kids, as she didn’t have any of her own. And they remember that one evening better than most of the toys they received last Christmas.
Cheryl says
A big box from a refrigerator, washer, etc. Plain is great, but you could paint it, make a door and windows. My son loved his at that age and here in AZ it could be outside most of the time.
Ellie W says
In addition to the memberships, my kids love to get “play days”. We have some friends who give our kids a whole play day’s worth of gift cards. Like a $5 card to McDs + a $5 card to Target + a $5 card to a clothes place, etc. They love being able to pay for things themselves! Its really cute because they “wrap” them in a little purse (for my daughter) or wallet (for my son)!
Tracy says
Zoo passes, Children’s Museum membership, a special date with individual child, an overnite trip to a hotel with a waterpark. Gift Certificate to child’s favorite restaurant.
Lori :) says
I think it’s great to come up with some alternative ideas instead of just toys (park, zoo and museum passes and other activities; special food items they love; PJ’s or clothes; gift certificates for fun events/memory-making opportunities with their family, grandparents, etc. Last year my 9 year old’s favorite gifts were a bag of granny smith apples – “all for me!” and a huge container of cheese puffs – again, all for him! 🙂 He was in heaven!) . . . but also, you can instill that attitude of giving with this: For every toy/present they get for Christmas, they need to decide what toy/item they have at home that they can pass on to someone else who might enjoy or need it. I have a friend that actually has them get rid of 2 things for every 1 item (at least for now . . . to help purge the abundance they have). This goes for b-days as well. Start this tradition when they are young, and it will not be an issue when they are older – because it’s just what you do . . . all they know. 🙂
One year our main c-mas gift to the kids was a trip to Great Wolf Lodge. We had a blast, built some memories, and didn’t have to deal with alot of toys that would clutter our house after only being played with a few times.
Ask for toys/items that are educational, instill creativity, you can plant, eat, build, etc . . . Some of my kids favorite things to play with were the huge cardboard boxes and some markers . . . and we built a whole town out of them. They played with them for weeks (we have a big playroom they could set them up in)!
Since your kids are really young – and if everyone else is buying them a lot of stuff . . . you can limit what you buy them – and instead use that money for a fun family event, donating or doing something for a charity as a family, etc.
I know that telling people what to buy or not to buy for your kids can be touchy . . . but hopefully your family will hear your heart, and be willing to come up with some creative ideas instead of just more toys. 🙂
Blessings!
Helen says
Magazine subscriptions- National Geographic Kids, High Five, Zoobies. Those have been hits at our house.
Allison Voges says
I was wondering if anyone would mention magazines. My in-laws have subscribed to Highlights and Humpty Dumpty for my kids (preschool/early elem age). Highlights also has a puzzle mag so I suggested it for my word-puzzle-loving 7 year old!
Cam says
The gifts I am promoting this year, no matter how old the recipient, is the Gift of an Experience. Tickets to the circus, movies, bowling, amusement park, zoo, etc. Give them something to enjoy away from home and take plenty of pictures. I bet it will be the best gift they receive.
meredith says
My parents buy our family a gift each year…a gift to a museum. We love it!! Last year we received a museum pass to a science museum in Baltimore. On a recent family trip to NYC we were able to use the same pass and get into 4 museums for free during our trip. Best $125 my parents ever spent, and I thank then each time I’m able to take my kids to a museum.
Laura says
My grandparents gave us new snowsuits every year until we got too old to wear them, and my other grandmother gave us two or three pearls (really!) each year – which my mother had strung for each of us so that by age 16 we each had a beautiful string of pearls. My mother-in-law suggested starting each child collecting something – like snowbabies or model cars – and that was the special gift she gave each year. As your kids get older you can suggest lessons or stuff the kids need for the lessons – one of my daughters took horse riding lessons this way – with great boots and helmet! My kids have also enjoyed going to events with their grandparents – my oldest daughter loved seeing a Sesame Street stage show when she was about 5. I say let the grandparents spoil if they like … just try to get creative and make your suggestions meaningful for everyone.
Amanda says
My parents do the add a pearl necklace thing for my daughter. Each year she gets an inch of pearls and when she is 16 they will string them together for a necklace. It makes a nice gift that is meaningful and cuts down on the number of toys she receives.
Anitra says
Membership to a local zoo or children’s museum.
We went to our local science center with my father just after Christmas (on a discounted one-day pass). When he saw how much fun the kids were having, he helped us pay for a one-year family membership – we can go as often as we like, 2 adults and up to 4 kids!
Also think about what your kids might need in the next year – are they getting old enough for bikes (probably not yet) or a new wagon to haul them around the neighborhood? New bedding? Board games? Puzzles? These might technically be “toys”, but they are for the whole family to use together.
jennifer says
membership to the zoo/ county park/ water park overnight hotel/ passes to an attraction
Sarah Tiani says
I ask for things that can be “used up” like a crystal making kit or cooking kit. Plus each year the kids count the number of toys under the tree and pick that many items out of their toys to give away. I’m always so surprised at how willing they are to give things up! Plus my mother works at the Catholic Parish Outreach where we give most things and always has a story about which child picked which toy and how happy they were to have it, which makes my kids get the entire connection.
Martina says
we have asked in the past for bed sheets, mattresses, cribs basically anything that we would be able to afford at the cheapest version but our in-laws can afford to buy high quality and expensive versions off. The always get a little toy no matter what, but it sure does help out when you have growing boys and don’t have to buy stuff like that.
Lori in NC says
I would like a Lowes or Home Depot gift card to paint my son’s room from pale green to something less baby-ish now that he’s 5 ! Area rug, Wall Art (think Target framed items), Clock, Clock Radio, CD player, Lamp, Curtains, Window Blinds, Hat wall hooks, Bookshelf (think IKEA), Shoe Rack (floor or hanging).
august says
We do the same thing! We never paid for diapers or furniture for our son until he was over 3 and to be honest, all we bought him was a new big boy bed (full size). It set us back about $500, but considering we never paid for anything else, we were fine with that!
People could also pitch in for things. For example, we wanted to buy a really nice toothbrush for our son ($60) and my parents usually spend $50 per grandchild since they have 11. We ended up only paying $10 for it and its something that will definitely benefit him. It plays music and he can change the colors of it so he thinks it’s pretty awesome, too!
Cassie says
I know a family that has the same issue! This year they chose to over Christmas break go on a family trip in the middle of the week with their children to a water themed area. This way it was making memories without having to give their children things they didn’t need. It could go the other way too, the other family members could purchase things for this, rent the hotel, etc.
Christina says
Maybe a membership for the zoo or children’s museum would be a good gift given the ages of the children? What about shoes for the kids? Cute little rubber boots or sweet little dressy shoes for the kids for church. When my kids were little I bought a butterfly zoo and that was fun for all of us. It comes in a package the kids can open. Next, you simply mail in the card and a little while later you have a package in the mail (kids love to get mail). Then the fun of watching butterflies grow beginnings. There’s all kinds of fun gifts like this at homesciencetools.com. We had an ant farm once as well and my son loved it.
Lacy says
Its not unique, but so far I’ve asked my son’s grandparents to give them money instead of toys or clothes for Christmas and birthdays. I put all the money in their savings accounts. Sometimes my mom will get a small toy or book because she likes to give them things.
You could also ask for:
memberships to the zoo, aquarium, children’s museum, etc if you have one nearby.
gymnastics or music classes.
Tickets to Disney on Ice.
Sarah says
The obviously one is a membership: local pool, zoo, child museum, science center, park. Something for the kids to do and experience rather than stuff for you to accumulate. I think this is a good gift for families of all shapes and sizes.
Lana says
A year long membership to the local zoo or children’s museum.
Lana says
Well I see that this was suggested a bunch of times!
When our 5 were young we started collecting Brio train parts. These items are really expensive so a gift might have been a single train car or a special piece of track. I know there are cheaper versions of these trains but the Brio is exceptional. Our children are now 21 to 33 and the Brio train lives in a basket under the baby grand piano. There have been times when our grandkids have arrived from out of state and rushed past us to get to the train and play! They actually have the cheaper version of train at home but never play with it!
Meredith M. says
My family is very generous with my children, too. I asked them to get them something small to open and then give the rest of what they would spend in cash and we put it in the Disney fund. My mother didn’t love the idea, but my sisters do. We can’t wait to be able to take them there, so every little bit helps.
amanda says
Music classes
Bethany says
We often ask for consumable gifts for our kids – a bag of their favorite candy or snack, for example – especially something that may not typically be in your budget to buy (toddlers usually love this kind of gift, I remember my 18 mo opening a box on Annie’s Graham Bunnies and being quite excited – who doesn’t love food?)! Also, a membership to a local museum or zoo – if your extended family live close, choosing the Family+2 or Grandparent membership option allow you to take them along with you (or for them to take the grandkids) and create extra special memories. We also have found these memberships to be extra-cost effective when we travel for vacation. Most museums and zoos have a reciprocal agreement, so we are able to visit attractions for free while traveling. For family who a gift membership like this but live far away, we send pictures of the family enjoying a trip as a thank you during the year. If there are any other types of attractions that your family might not typically visit because of cost, that is also a great option – i.e. a bunch of tokens to Chuck E. Cheese in a treasure box, or tickets to a pool or waterpark with a pair of goggles or a gift certificate for a YMCA or similar tumbling class (maybe even with a new pair of leggings or something).
Dana says
I try to encourage “experience” gifts or consumable gifts. Museum/zoo memberships, gift certificates for indoor play places, arts and crafts supplies (finger paint, etc) have all gone over well at our house for little ones. Or, $$ towards something large you want for your family, plus something small for the kids to open.
Amber says
I have a 2-year-old son, and this year I asked my mom for a family membership to our county museums. It inclueds admission to the children’s museum up to 7 times in the year as well as unlimited admission to other museums not specifically for kids but with very enjoyable exhibts nonetheless.
Another thing I’ve done in the past is to put away some of the toys to break out on a rainy/whiny day. 😉
Kay Mathias says
Last year I made banana nut bread, cookies, chocolate covered pretzels, hot cocoa mix, and spiced tea mix and packaged it up for gifts. I also took fabric scraps and inexpensive dishtowels I got at the dollar store and made hanging dishtowels. They gifts were a big hit and the cost was minimal.
Suzanne H says
I hate to admit to this but I have been known to take gifts back to the store they came from and get store credit to use on everyday items. Last year my son got 10 construction trucks for his birthday. I gave him 3, put 4 in the attic (pulled 3 out over the course of a year and re-gifted 1) and returned 3 to Target. I got about $25 in store credit. I used the credit to buy things we needed for the house – TP, dog food, etc. He also received a $25 gift card to Target which I used as well. I then deposited the same amount of $ (somewhere around $50) in his savings account. That way, he wasn’t out anything, people contributed to his savings account and he didn’t end up with too many toys that would never be played with. I know some people might disagree with my doing this but it worked for me (and DH thought it was brilliant! LOL).
august says
My parents are AVID about the money being for whatever WE deem fit. My husband makes very little money and was unemployed for 13 months straight. We were zero income. I waited as long as possible before I dipped into our son’s money, but my parents told me that having a roof over his head was by far more important than toys or savings. It’s true.
We replace all money we borrow as soon as we are able, but as long as you feel like you didn’t have another choice or are doing something that is in the best interest of your child, I don’t see anything wrong with it.
Bernadette says
I think that’s great! I don’t know a single kid who doesn’t use toilet paper or milk. 🙂 I’ve done the same thing, used their gift cards for family purchases and contributed the same amount of money to their 529. It makes the most sense and they couldn’t care less at this age. As they get older I’ll let them spend their own money (within reason) but sometimes you just have to be practical, a 3 or 5 year old has no business spending $50-$100 on toys when they have a house full of them that they don’t play with. A few good toys apiece (especially since I have 3 kids and more toys than that just gets ridiculous!) and the rest can go in their savings. I think they’ll appreciate that when they’re older, I know I appreciated every single one of the savings bonds my grandma had given me over the years for presents when I was in college and desperately in need of grocery money.
Erin says
Totally agree with this, and I’ve done it myself, but almost always with clothing. My kds have plenty of nice, good-quality clothing, and I pay a fraction of what my MIL pays for not-as-nice stuff, so if they don’t need it or I don’t like it, back it goes! I really don’t feel guilty about it, either because I know the stuff will languish in their drawers unworn otherwise.
Amy says
What a blessing to have so many loving and giving relatives!!
Not nearly as fun to give as toys, but what about:
A donation to a college saving account (529 plan) for your kids?
A family gift to a local children’s museum or “little gym” type place?
(When they get a bit older, you could add the zoo or movie tickets or something like that)
Some sort of gift of time – a relative comes to hang out with the kids to play? Make cookies? Read stories together?
It’s hard to find an activity for all the kids at such different ages out and AWAY from home, but maybe a visit to you would be appreciated? (Of course, if you already see them a lot or they live far away, this suggestion probably isn’t the best!)
Andrea says
They could purchase a family membership to a children’s museum. This gift would be used all year long!
Laura says
I suggest asking the giver to come along with the children once or twice so that they can see how great a gift this is and how much it means to the whole family. My feeling is that most grandparents and other family members want to be part of the children’s lives so letting them be involved when the kids are enjoying the gift is important.
Heather @ My Mothermode says
I started an Amazon wish list for each family member as I think of things or hear them mention things throughout the year. Items have included sleeping bags, thermos, books, boots, and gear they need, as well as a few well-made toys. The grandparents know where to find it and can use it anytime.
Becky says
Yes!
Krysten says
I’m in almost the same boat as the reader who asked the question, except I only have 2 children (3 and 8 months). I love all the ideas about memberships or outings, but we’re planning to move this summer so we don’t want a membership for anything here because we wouldn’t use it, and we live halfway across the country from my in-laws (the ones who like to spoil my kids) so special outings with them are impossible. They do get some clothes for my children if I let them know what they need, but they also want to get them something fun. It’s especially hard because I’m trying to pare down on our stuff to get ready to move. Any suggestions?
Suzanne H says
Look for places with national chains and see if something exists where you currently live and where you will be moving (if you know already). If not, they can always give little McDonald’s gift cards, etc. Tablets have come way down in price – maybe one with some learning aps on it for the kiddos. Or a portable DVD player if you are driving a ways to your new home (or traveling to see grandparents at some point).
august says
Gift cards are easy. My parents spent $30 on educational toys for my son and then put another $20 on a gift card. We plan to take him to Toys R Us and let him pick out whatever he wants since we’ve never really been in a position to do that ourselves. I can’t wait to see what he decides on!
Jo Ann says
Some children’s museums have the passes that will work at museums in other states, so maybe that would help with the moving aspect if you were interested and had one where you are now and one where you are going.
Krysten says
No, we have no idea where we’re moving to – only that we most likely will be!
Jennifer says
what about a class or a membership to the zoo?
Jen Krausz says
Tickets to Sesame Street Live or another live concert geared toward little ones. Tickets or IOU for an outing to kid-themed museums and such (in my area there is Please Touch Museum, Crayola Factory, Discovery Center (science). Kid roller skates and tickets to the roller rink. A camping trip. A Gymboree or Mommy and Me class. These are all ideas for experiences rather than more stuff. Kids’ music CDs are also nice and don’t make much clutter. Furniture for their rooms if they need any (maybe a desk for the 3 year old). Little recliners if there’s room for them.
kate says
You live in the same region I do. Check out “Giggleberry Fair” in Lahaska, PA, in Peddler’s Village. I want to take my three-year-old “niece” there sometime this winter – it looks like a ton of fun.
Lori in NC says
What about a tent ? And don’t make it a kiddie one — get a regular outdoor big one — when they’re toddlers, it can be a fun time to set up outside on occasion and play during the day — but they will also grow into it and you can do family camp outs in the back yard — and other places. Other people could buy lanterns, a waterproof tarp (for under the tent), snacks, etc.
Maegen says
I love experience gifts and college money, but if the grandparents insist on getting things, try to think of toys that encourage active and imaginative play.
Dress up clothes
Ride on toys for outside
jump ropes, sleds, snowsuits, swim fins…
maybe a big ticket item like a play kitchen or puppet theater
Think items that might make your life easier
a lego or train table (maybe too young for this one)
backpacks
One of my favorite gifts from grandma was fluffy, personalized bathrobes. My boys used those for the pool and bath time for years!
I’d also try to encourage Quality over Quantity. Those wooden, Melissa and Doug blocks are wonderful and have given my boys years of play.
Rhoda says
We suggested experience gifts for our kids. Mani/pedi with Nonna, dinner and/or movies with grandparents, and family zoo (or other parks/activity) passes. We know that they will still get toys for gifts, so before Thanksgiving we went through our toy bins and had the kids (probably your three year old could help at this point) and pick toys they would like to bless other kids with. We have a Bus Christmas store at our church that accepts new and gently used toys for our bus riders. There are also shelters in most cities that would be excited for new toys for kids who stay with them.
Sherri says
I agree with zoo or museum passes, or tumbling/music classes. Those were great and things we could not afford on our own. It could also be a date with grandparents, where they take the child out for McD’s or a special show (Sesame Street Live or Veggie Tales Live).
Stephanie says
Since you mention homescholing in your question, I would encourage learning toys (lauri, Melissa and Doug, learning resources, etc). I use lots of these for “table time” for my 3 year old, which keeps her productively occupied as I am working with other kids. Also, CDs to listen to (as they get older and don’t need naps but need rest these are GREAT).
Brandy says
We ask for a membership to our zoo.
Jennifer Brown says
I love the no-clutter gifts. You could ask for movie tickets, childrens museum passes, zoo passes etc.
Elizabeth says
Are there a few things that your children already have that could be added to? Take duplos for example–they are a great, highly versatile toy that could be enjoyed by all of your kids for years to come. Beyond the standard blocks, there are a few extra sets with construction vehicles, farm equipment, animals, etc. My oldest son builds zoos and towers with the blocks while my daughter plays house with the little people and the baby pushes the trucks around on an imaginary road. They all fit in the same bin so it doesn’t take up extra space.
Classes at a local community center, tickets to an upcoming show or a membership to the local zoo or science center are also great, clutter-free gifts.
Dana says
We are in the same boat. We have a 5, 4, 2, and 7 mo. old (all boys!). And way too many toys. So this year we asked one set of grandparents for a zoo membership. The boys would love to do that many times throughout the year, and it’s not something I have to pick up everyday! 🙂
We have also put the following on our wish list for the kids: family sized tent, fishing poles, kites, the BBC production of LIFE and PLANET EARTH, adventure stories on cd (jonathan park adventure collection, adventures in odyssey, Chronicles of Narnia, etc), a new swing set (for those who are going to go all out anyway!:).
We would love to give them more experiences than things. We just tried to think of what we’d like to do throughout the year with them, what we needed to make those things happen, and gave those suggestions to family!
Joy says
We have family that lives out of state. It would kill me to see what they had spent on postage– plus, our home is small and the toys would pile up for our three little ones. A gift idea that worked well for us consisted of our in-laws buying a pool pass (or putting an amount towards it) that our whole family enjoyed for the entire summer. If you have a child that enjoyed gymnastics at your local rec dept, dance, etc., I would consider asking family if they would like to provide a months worth of lessons, etc. as a gift for that child.
Carrie in NC says
I felt the same way when my kids were that age (actually, I still feel that way!). Some of the non-toy gifts that my children received that they have enjoyed are sleeping bags and anything personalized. They love their personalized suitcases and pillow-cases.
Sara says
Experiences! Zoo membership, children’s museum admission, toddler music class, Gymboree classes, etc.
mom@home says
A family membership to a zoo, museum, or aquarium is a great gift that lasts all year!
Amelia says
We love museum or zoo passes. Basically any gift that you can go and “DO”.
Lynda says
How about some dress up clothes? They could find some great extravagent outfits at places like Goodwill which (will also help that organization. : )
Julie says
A small deposit, say $5.-$10. into a savings account would be better than more toys :). They could take the kids on a special lunch/movie date or have them stay over for a special evening.
Mary says
I ask for toys that go with what we already have. Little People, Duplos, dress up clothes. I don’t need to try to find extra boxes for the toys – they just go with what we already have.
Experience gifts are also good. Have them get pictures from wherever they are going to take the child and put it in a little book for them to open.
Favorite fun foods also make good gifts. They get a little treat, but it is consumable.
Also, try to pare down on what you have either just before or just after Christmas.
jennifer says
Oh please share comments. We have the same problem! (ie. a closet full of toys from grandmom with a birthday and christmas in the same month)
jennifer says
and I might add neither grandparent wants to give money or contribute to 529.
I think we will do this since there are already so many gifts I dont feel like I can buy her much. I have 3 presents for birthday with her party and maybe 1 big thing for christmas.
I am going to donate/sell no longer used toys from last year but aside from that, can you share comments how to share delictely with grandparenets (who gew up poor) that we dont want our kids to grow up spoiled? God has abundantly blessed us and we don’t want for anything really. It is a different problem than not having enough of course but I want to teach mine to live frugally and to give.
Carla says
We’re in the same boat. They want to see “instant” results from the gifts they give, and don’t look at the savings account as something our child can do anything with right now. My mother-in-law will spend $200+ on each person (myself, husband, and our son)… even when we tell her we really don’t need anything.
Ac says
My experience has been that it’s best to gently mention your preferences and if they don’t want to do that, graciously accept the gifts (also a behavior you want to teach your children) and then either regift the items you don’t want them to have/they don’t want, store them to bring out later (it seems new after 6 months), or donate them.
I realized that complaining about them not following my preferences was not the example I wanted to set with my children. I hope that they’ll learn that we can’t control the behaviors of others but we can control how we respond.
It does kind of stink, though. 😉
Jessica says
I love this response. So true!
Siobhan says
I know you said not clothing, but what about Coats and Shoes? Even snow suits would be fun for them to get and play in all winter long.
I am all about the idea of swim classes, zoo memberships, or even a membership to the local toddler play center.
tess says
I set up 529 college plans for my children when they were that age. For my oldest daughters first birthday party, it was incredibly simple with homemade cake and minimal to no decorations. At that time, I established with my family that saving for college was incredibly important to me, and spending $100 on cake and presents for a one year old was a low priority. After seeing that I did not highly value another toy, they started giving small amounts to the college funds for birthdays and christmas. It is amazing how much family giving ($50-$100) for every birthday and christmas can really add up. My daughter is 18 now, and it looks we actually may have saved too much for college! I will keep it in a 529 so hopefully someday it will be there for her own children. I never asked for money, but I would usually mention how I didn’t buy birthday napkins, but i added $25 to the college fund!
L says
Awesome suggestion! We never had big birthday parties or excessive x-mas gift giving from either side of the family. But what a nice idea to have a 529 in place. My daughter is now 18 and college is expensive! We have some money saved, my daughter has some money saved, and we plan to pay the rest as we go. And this is do-able for us. But the best option is obviously to have most/all of the money saved. Way to go!
Suzanne H says
Your family members can:
open or contribute to a savings account meant for college for each child
give a savings bond
buy them stock(s)
donate a toy to Toys for Tots in their honor
donate $ to a cause in their honor
do a combination – donation and buy them something small/less expensive
buy a family gift – Wii, large building blocks set or something similar
buy a family membership to someplace – museum, park, etc.
buy board games for the family
take each child out for 1 special day – just them
buy them something they can use for many years (sandbox, trampoline – assuming you have the yard for those)
Explain to your family that the gifts of time and memories are more important to you than tangible things!
Suzanne H says
Also, you can never have too many books! Okay, you can but when you do you can go swap them out at a used bookstore. Clears out space, the kids get new things without spending additional $ and you get a trip out of the house!
Jillian @ Mom's Cup Of Ambition says
We have small kids ages 2 & 4 and we’ve gotten a lot of use out of our national parks pass.
I always ask for art supplies. I put most of them away, but they are a life saver on a day when it’s too hot or cold to go out. I ask for play dough too because you can’t have too much of that.
I’ve also been known to ask for ultra practical things like shoes one size up, back packs, or sleeping bags.
Stephanie says
I agree with the others. The best gifts we get…because we asked…were family memberships to the zoo and children’s museum. Our kids benefit through the whole year! Plus, we get out of the house for fun without breaking our budget.
My kids love to go play at different places to eat too. My parents have given the kids have gotten gift cards to McDonalds, Burger King and Chick Fil A for them to go play and have a kids meal!
I love the gifts of things to do the absolute most!
michelle says
Love this idea! My 5 year old loves to play at chic-fil-a but it costs us $20 every time we go. We go a lot in the summer because we live in Louisiana and its just too hot to play outside, so we will go there so the kids can run and not overheat 🙂
J says
I am a firm believer in honesty, put gently and nicely it may help your situation. I would explain that you simply cannot have more toys at your home. You are full up. Perhaps they may be willing to give to a savings fund for the “littles”?
To waste money on items that are not needed seems rather sad and I would keep searching for ideas that would assist them now or in the future.
We started savings accounts for our grandchildren because they have too many toys, clothes, gadgets, etc. In about 7 more years I will know how the savings account is received instead of excess.
Kristen says
experiences! In addition to the zoo, we have a children’s museum and a botanical garden that both have lots for toddlers to do that are great to have season passes for. An art, tumbling or swimming class also makes a great present!
Tayisha says
Gift cards for “field trips” to the Zoo, Children’s Museum, or to support an extra curricular activity such as ballet, soccer, gymnastics, etc.
I have a 3 year old who is super active and her monthly activities can range from $65-$170 per month. Receiving gift cards to her Gymnastics gym and Soccer Club would be a blessing!
Maryalene, Social Media Angel for SavingsAngel says
We are fans of asking for memberships to local attractions…children’s museum, zoo, etc.
Jenny says
Babysitting, especially 1:1- the gift of time benefits the giver and the receiver in this case 🙂
bekah ulrich says
Ask for a pass to a local attraction, like the zoo. It will give your kids something to do all year.
amybee says
or season tickets to the zoo
amybee says
first part missing – try experience gifts – tumbling class or music class. We did music together at age 2-3 and it was a lot of fun.
Anna says
I asked for new pillows for my little girls for Christmas. Haha, not all that exciting on the one hand, but they were thrilled to get big, puffy pillows, and oddly enough that one change made their room look better. (Besides, did you know that dust mites live in pillows and you should replace them every three years? LOL)
Anna says
Sorry, AmyBee, I didn’t mean to reply to your post.
amybee says
Think “experience” gifts – tumbling class or music class. We did “music together” around age 2-3 and it was really fun.
Heather says
Ask them to help make a “When I was…(whatever age)” scrapbook for them by making a page for it specifically for the child. Pictures, important, special things that happened through the year, maybe a note to the child. Then instead of getting a bunch of gifts from different people there is one combined gift from everyone. Not something they can play with, but in the future this will be a cherished memory!