Out of the (toy) box gift ideas

[Mango]

We didn't do "big" gifts for the kids, though one year we got a family computer for xmas.

I feel old now. I don't think Al Gore had even thought about the internet yet when I was a kid.

 

[dbuck]

I feel old now. I don't think Al Gore had even thought about the internet yet when I was a kid.

 

[TooFarTampa]

I feel old now. I don't think Al Gore had even thought about the internet yet when I was a kid.

Classic Mangy.

 

[scooterbug44]

If it makes you feel better it was so long ago it had the printer paper w/ the holes along the edges that you had to tear off! :funn:

 

[TooFarTampa]

If it makes you feel better it was so long ago it had the printer paper w/ the holes along the edges that you had to tear off! :funn:

Dot Matrix!

 

[Ocean Lover]

While reading Shel's article it reminded me of the blocks that my son had. The kind that are made from sturdy cardboard, waxed coating, different colors, various sizes. We bought several sets of them and those things are STILL around - stacked up in his bedroom (he's 17 now). But he played with those and all the neighbor kids always loved them. Even up until they were in middle school! It seemed to inspire such imagination from designing & building forts to highways and racetracks. We bought some from Toys R Us but most came from the educational stores. They are basically indestructible.

The only problem was getting him to stack them up each night or stowed away in huge laundry bags.

JR we have these at church and the kids LOVE them.

 

[Bob]

books, books, books at Borders!!!

 

[peapod1980]

TFT, I do the same thing as OL with the three gifts. We've done it forever, and I'm glad we do, though it actually makes it a little harder because the gifts have to really "count," you know? If you wanted to start the tradition this year, it's not too late. The 7-year-old might make some noise about it at first, but I bet he'd get over it, and then it's in place for next year. Just a thought. As far as inspiration, what I do sometimes is look at "hot toy" lists online and see if a particular toy keeps popping up. Usually the parenting magazines have really good lists.

 

[Minnie]

I know mine got way too much and in highsight I would never do that again.

As OL and Peapod suggested, I have a friend that gives her kids 3 gifts, just as the Magi took 3 gifts to the baby Jesus. The cost would be determined by the parent's as to their preference and ability.