Giving The Gift Of Experience Rather Than Gifts

Every year, I ponder on what to give to my sons for Christmas. Things have changed since I was a kid. Typically, gifts were given twice a year...Birthdays and Christmas. Of course, I should mention the occasional gifts from the tooth fairy and the Easter Bunny were also nice surprises throughout the year.

But Santa and my parents always new the specific things I was dreaming about.

Now...My kids like to take their own allowance and buy the things they want...all year round. So what would be something you could do for your loved ones...that will be memorable?

I've recently heard about "The Four Gift Rule": "Something they want, something they need, something they wear, and something they read."

1. The Want- ONE Material Gift-  What is the thing they want most on their list? Can you afford it? If it puts a smile on their face, the rest of the gifts will make them smile too.

2. The Need- Experience Gift-This can be something that would really help them with who THEY are. Maybe they love science. How about a year membership to the Science Museum? Maybe they like to make crafts. How about a basket full of crafting supplies or a sewing machine? Think about your child..their special talents and interests.

3. The Wear - Clothes- When don't we need clothes. Get your kids something they need, but that they also would really enjoy.

4. The Read- Memory Books - Everyone says there is no better gift than the gift of reading. Find a book that reflects their interests, and let them be,travel, and dream about whatever they want through the gift of imagination through reading.

FAMILY EXPERIENCE GIFTS

Here are some great ideas for your family experience gifts. Think about your family. What reflects happiness for your family when you are all together?

THEATER TICKETS
SCIENCE CENTER MEMBERSHIPS
TENT/CAMPER FOR CAMPING
LOCAL ATTRACTION SEASON PASSES
FUN FAMILY OUTINGS
GIVING TO YOUR FAVORITE CHARITY
LUNCH AND DINNER DATES
GEOCACHING
MOVIE TICKETS

What have you done for your family to have the experience of a lifetime? Check out the full story at http://wellnessmama.com/62144/give-experiences/.

Send me your ideas to kelly@mix949.com.