Holiday Giving: The Children

As the Holiday and gift-giving season are in full gear, we as educators are often asked, “Do you have any good ideas on gifts for my child.”  Our response is usually as follows:

• Books – As you build your child’s library take time to ensure books in all genres of reading (picture books, poetry, non-fiction etc). 
• Open-ended toys – Toys like blocks, dress up, other building sets have an infinite number of uses and have stood the test of time.  These kinds of toys allow for creativity, can be used alone or with others, build concentration and are excellent vehicles for language development.
• Toys that look real and “adult-like” – This is especially true for our youngest students.  Toddlers and preschoolers like to be part of your world.  Cooking utensils, wood-working tools, sewing kits are ways in which children can be included in our adult world.  Remember when choosing such activities they should be made for a child’s hand and should be done with adult supervision.
• Board games – Board games for older children can teach math skills, taking turns, not to mention the art of winning and the art of losing.
• Physical Development Toys - Sleds, gym mats, and yoga videos are examples of ways in which children can keep fit during the winter months. 
• Musical Toys - Depending on your ability to tolerate noise, these toys can help develop an auditory sense.
• Experiential Gifts – A gift certificate to make pottery, or day of winter hiking at Fox Island, a day filled doing science experiments, crafting or cooking together.

It is our observation that most of our children have an abundance of toys.   In order for children develop a sense of appreciation for all that they have, parents may want to keep in mind:

• Less is more – It is not the number of gifts, but the quality.  They do not always need to enjoy all the toys all at once.  Put some away for a later date.
•  Season of giving – Ask your child to give away gently used toys to children who do not have as much.
• Gift of time – Children will love to spend a day/lunch/dinner with dad, mom, grand-child.  This is also a time to slow down and create wonderful memories with your child. 
• Thank you cards – Remember that even the youngest of children can be involved in thanking the gift giver for the gift.  If your child is not able to write, they can attach a sticker or draw a picture.  For those that are emerging writers, adults can write the thank you with a highlighter for the child to trace, or he can copy what has been written.

Here is wishing all of you peace during the Holidays.

Warmly,

Vyju