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It’s that time of year again — and while your little ones might be super excited about presents, it’s also a good time to consider whether or not children really need all those expensive gifts (or receive any at all). For many kids, Christmas gifts and other holiday goodies are the reason for the season. Even though that might not be possible, it doesn’t mean the holidays will be bare. Here are some ideas for Christmas presents that are budget friendly.
If you’re on a budget: Christmas gifts that are easy on your wallet
Truthfully, we’ve been conditioned by companies who want us to spend money and go into debt over a season that traditionally meant slowing down, resting, and spending quality time with our loved ones.
“Teaching your kids that it is the thought that counts, when it comes to gifts, is a year long process. It certainly becomes the highlight during the holiday season,” New York City based behavioral therapist Marcie Beigel, Ed.D. BCBA-D, told Mom.com. “Even if your kids are focused on gifts, regularly talk with them about other elements that are important!”
Here are some gift ideas that aren’t too expensive:
1) Classic children’s board games
You can never go wrong with a classic board game that can not only provide fun, but communal interactions. “Many classic children’s board games sell for under $10 like Candy Land and Guess Who and can provide years of fun,” said writer and mom of two Jessica Eastman Stewart.
2) Magnetic blocks
Sets of magnetic blocks — like these Coodoo magnetic blocks — are always a hit no matter the age. The fun colors and shapes you can make will help your little one develop tactile, math, and spatial skills all while playing.
3) Stomp Rocket Racers
Stomp Rockets (ages 5+) are currently Amazon’s #1 Best Seller in Toy Figure Cars and teach kids STEM principles all while encouraging them to run, jump, and experiment with speed and force. The award-winning toy is easy to assemble and doesn’t require any batteries (a plus when you’re considering overall costs.)
4) Discovery #MINDBLOWN Mini Unearthed Pirate Treasure Set
This Discovery #MINDBLOWN set (6+) can dig up two buried treasures each set and is a great way for littles to get into STEM via paleontology and biology. The learning lasts past the use of the kit, too, with an app where your children can learn even more.
Of course, your kids — especially older kids — may be disappointed about not getting a big ticket present. Dr. Beigel advised that this wasn’t a one-time conversation — nor a conversation only after your child doesn’t receive what they want. “This is a conversation to start today,” she told Mom.com. She suggested asking your kids how they’ll feel if they get the gifts they really want, if they don’t, who they’re excited to give presents to, and what else they’re excited about for the holiday.
Consider experiences instead of gifts
If creating memories or cultivating experiences is more your thing, these gifts might be just what you’re looking for — and can be enjoyed long after the excitement of Christmas day has passed.
5) A YES day or date
Some parents will give their kids a “yes” day where they’ll say yes to anything the child requests within a certain budget (or if that’s too financially risky, just do a date).
Mom and teacher Marissa Gillette suggested a day or night with their favorite activities, snacks, or shows. “[For their stocking or to have something to open, you can include] something for an activity to do together,” she said. “Some sprinkles and syrup for an ice cream sundae night, a cookie cutter and sprinkles for a cookie party, bubbles and chalk for a park date, marshmallows/chocolate/grahams for a s’mores party.”
6) Zoo or museum pass
While these passes might cost more than a single entrance ticket, you usually make your money back after 2 or 3 visits. Plus, many of the passes include free parking and free guest passes — so you can pass the gift along to friends and family or have them join you. Not only do you get some culture, you make memories for years to come.
Gifts that even Marie Kondo would love
Sometimes, we want gifts that can be consumed or used up so that we don’t have to figure out where to put it. Plus, it reduces your carbon footprint and decreases clutter. What’s not to love?
7) Bubbles or a bubble machine
Never underestimate how excited kids (especially the toddler set) get over bubbles. You can buy different sized wands, make your own out of old wire hangers, provide an old pie pan, and buy quality bubble solution (or DIY) or a bubble machine and go to town.
8) Baked goods or favorite foods
Do your kids have a favorite treat? Make a batch for them and wrap it up in festive packaging so they feel like it’s extra special. Or, you can make it an activity where they help you make the treat, and maybe invite some friends over to do a cookie or baked goods exchange!
9) Chalk and other art supplies
Whether it’s a box of thick sidewalk chalk, bath paints, window crayons, or fabric markers, these are great fun to turn ordinary activities and spaces into beauty and art.
Of course no matter how hard we try, we feel guilty for not giving our kids more. “Recognize that every parent has a moment where they can not provide exactly what their child wants, and that is ok,” Dr. Beigel reminded us.
