It’s only October, but Christmas will be here before you know it! If your children are anything like mine, they have lots of people who love them & despite your best intentions, their playroom is filled to the brim. If you have a niece/nephew, grandchild, or even your own child to shop for this holiday season, read our all-ages list of gifts that we guarantee will never be tripped over:
1. Making Memories at Schlitterbahn!
My family and I had the chance to spend the day at Schlitterbahn a few weeks ago and had a blast. Since our girls are still small (both 3 and under), I was a little apprehensive about a day at a humongous waterpark with them, but I can honestly say I was pleasantly surprised! Massive oak trees are scattered all around Schlitterbahn New Braunfels which made the tough Texas heat and the sun basically a non-issue! There was plenty to do for all ages and the food and drinks were both tasty and reasonably priced! In most waterparks we have been to, there is one splash pad for young kids while the rest of the park is geared towards much older children. Schlitterbahn New Braunfels was definitely unique because in addition to the multitudes of slides and thrill rides for adults and older kids, there were about 4 (maybe even more) distinct locations for young kiddos to play and splash safely! It was such an enjoyable day for our little family that I couldn’t help but think that a Season Pass to Schlitterbahn New Braunfels would be an excellent Christmas gift that would provide even more opportunities for quality family time together! This also makes a great gift for adult siblings’ families so the whole group of cousins, parents and grandparents can enjoy a multi-generational trip together! Check out season pass options here: https://www.schlitterbahn.com/new-braunfels/season-pass.
2. Extreme Makeover: Child’s Room Edition
If your child has been asking about paint or is just ready for a new big girl/boy room, consider a room update as a useful, exciting surprise present! This one is great because you can go all out with a complete re-do including paint, furniture and decor or you can keep it as minimal as you like with maybe just a new comforter/bedspread etc. This also works well if a few family members want to contribute for this present by gifting a lamp, mirror, rug or a decorative pillow to go with their ‘new’ room!
3. A New (or Existing) Activity!
Has the little one you’re purchasing for been mentioning they would like to try dance, gymnastics, soccer, football, fencing, etc.? Purchase a couple trial classes for them or even a month or two of the activity they’ve been dreaming of! (Check iQuriousKids.com for unique class ideas and watch out for a holiday class listing coming soon!) If their schedule is already filled to the max, coordinate with their parents or the activity location to cover a month of their classes! Then, come cheer them on at their favorite activity!
4. Fast Food
Most parents aren’t bringing kiddos out to eat junk food very often, so taking them out for (or get a gift card for) a treat like ice cream or donuts or even McDonalds or Chic-Fil-A could be a fun, appreciated gift that also won’t go to waste!
5. Necessities
Ask the child or their parents if they need anything specific like clothing items, pajamas, shoes, school/art supplies, etc. If needed, a new, stylish lunchbox, Princess panties or glue & fingerpaints could be a great, useful gift!
In the comments, tell us your favorite, clutter-free gift ideas!
By Mary West
Stay-at-Home Mama of 2 and Teacher/Tutor; always looking for gift ideas that will be well- loved and useful!
**Thank you to Schlitterbahn New Braunfels for providing tickets for my family to enjoy your waterpark! We will be back. As always, all honest opinions and ideas in this blog are my own.
Some great ideas. We try and arrange days out rather than buying presents just for the sake of it.
We love to give my oldest activities for his gifts… It doesn’t clutter up the house, helps him learn something new, and gives him some screen-free fun over the course of several weeks.
This got me thinking about the gift to give my son this Christmas. A new activity would be great, such as enrolling in a basketball class or others. Thanks for the great ideas!
Great ideas for the holidays!
These are such great ideas! We are moving towards doing more things like this for Christmas rather than toys. Thank you!