Do you feel like you have a million toys scattered around your house? Some get played with, but most don’t; still, they keep piling up. Birthdays, Christmas, Easter baskets, and plenty of “just because” occasions continue to roll around, bringing gifts of toys with them. Putting a pause on new toys for your kids doesn’t have to mean putting a pause on gifts altogether. If your child has a birthday coming up, we have a great list of non-toy present ideas for you. From useful tools to unforgettable experiences, we have a feeling that your kids won’t even miss the toys this year!
- Kid-safe knife set with cookbook
Get your little one interested in the kitchen! She can pick out a recipe from her very own cookbook, and work with you to make it for a special dinner. - Apron with baking supplies
- Pottery painting class
- New bedding
Let them choose out their very own sheets, or surprise them with ones you know they’ll love. - Personalized water bottle
- Magazine subscription
A monthly magazine subscription is the gift that keeps on giving. - Bath bombs and bubbles
- Zoo or local museum membership
- Coupon for a dinner date with dad or mom
- Watch
Don’t underestimate the fun that a seemingly boring gift can bring. Your child will love checking the time on his own, or learning to tell time in the first place. - Alarm clock
- Wall calendar
Create a photo calendar to hang in your child’s room, and mark special days. They will love marking each day off and counting down the days until Grandma visits. - Movie tickets
- Coupon for mini golf
- Coupon for bowling
- “All About Me” day
Choose a day when your child gets to pick his favorite breakfast, lunch, dinner, activity, snack, bedtime book, and anything else you can think of. It can be as simple or extravagant as you want; you can make their favorite meals at home, or take them to their favorite restaurants for the day. Don’t forget to take photos! - Sunglasses
There are so many toy alternatives that your child will love, and they’ll likely remember these gifts more than a new toy. Creating memories together is one of the best gifts you can give someone.