Holiday Gifts for Grandchildren

Christmas is coming soon and your thoughts have already turned to what gifts to buy your grandchildren.

Perhaps you are thinking about buying the latest tech device or top toy. Or you may be considering something more personal or creative. One thing to keep in mind is to not buy something that is too big or that needs special care such as a pet. Clothing may be difficult too since sizes vary with every clothing manufacturer and kids are increasingly more selective about the style of clothing that they wear. So what should you decide on?

Giving gifts is giving a little part of you; it says to your grandchildren, “You’re important to me and I’m thinking about you.” So putting some thought behind the gift you give can really make the holiday special to them.

Capture their creative side

If you buy toys for a gift, give the creative side some thought. So many toys end up being played with only a handful of times and then end up in the toy box never to be played with again.

Venture into exploring the different types of art supplies and craft kits that your grandchildren may already have an interest in – such as a loom bracelet making kit or painting set to get the creative juices flowing. What about a telescope to look at the stars and explore the mysteries of the universe? Or a window sill garden where he or she can watch and tend to the plants as they grow? The more the child can use his or her imagination with the gift, the longer the gift may last.

What piques their interests?

Discover what your grandchild’s or grandchildren’s interests are. Are they interested in a musical instrument? Maybe pay for a year’s worth of lessons for them.

What if a grandson is interested in sports cars? Buy a year’s subscription to his favorite sports car magazine. What about computer games, iPads or iPhone? (Before buying anything electronic like those though, talk to your grandchild’s parents first. They may have restrictions, objections or may not want the child to have something like that.)

To continue, suppose your grandchild has an eye for photography. You could buy an inexpensive camera and maybe some age appropriate photography lessons. By listening to what your grandchild talks about, this will give you some idea on what kind of gift he or she may enjoy receiving.

What about keepsakes?

A grandchild who is older or an adult grandchild may want to have a keepsake given to them by you. It could be a favorite piece of jewelry she always admired or maybe a pocket watch which belonged to your father.

Hand embroidered pillowcases, crocheted lace edged hankies or even an especially pretty teacup and saucer – all may be appreciated by an older grandchild.

These items are “something to remember you by.” Just remember to tell the story behind the keepsake because that’s what makes the keepsake alive in your grandchild’s mind and associate it with you. The keepsake then becomes an heirloom carried into your grandchild’s family when he or she gets married and has children.

Selecting the perfect holiday gift for your grandchildren may just be the most enjoyable aspect of Christmas afterall!

Share your gift ideas in the comments!

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SeniorAdvisor.com Staff

Senior Advisor's knowledgeable writers blog about senior care services, trends and more.