I remember receiving many gifts when I was a child and how excited I became. I cannot think of one kid that would not be happy for receiving a gift. I also remember how excited and happy I felt when my parents took me to a new place, or we did something different.

I have a young daughter and although she has many toys, I am trying to expose her every day to more experiences. She still receives toys from family and friends, and as exciting as a new toy can be, the joy it brings is often quickly replaced by another must-have item. When I decide to buy her a toy, I try to focus on educational games and toys that can also provide family bonding experiences and promote learning.

Let’s explore why experiences make better gifts than toys even for young children, their long-term benefits, and how to find the perfect experience-based gift for kids of all ages. If you’re looking to give a present that truly matters, keep reading to discover why memories will always outshine material things.

Why Experiences Make Better Gifts Than Toys

Gifting experiences creates memories that last a lifetime, helping children grow emotionally, intellectually, and socially. Experiences foster curiosity and encourage children to explore the world around them in meaningful ways.

How to Find the Perfect Experience-Based Gift

The best experiences are those that enrich children's lives by helping them learn and gain knowledge. They allow kids to connect what they see in books, movies, or at school with real-world activities and places. Family travel is one of the most rewarding experiences you can give your children, and it’s my personal favorite, but there are many other meaningful options that don’t require travel or spending thousands of dollars.

Examples of experiences

Experiences can consist of visiting a new place, practicing something new, or having a new adventure. Some experiences cost money, but some can be done at home or in nature with no extra cost.

Here is a list of meaningful experiences you might consider for your children:

• Flying kites

• Skating

• Riding a bike

• Snorkeling

• Riding a horse

  

• Driving a race car

• Learning a new language

• Getting on a hot air balloon

• Tasting a new type of food

• Learning a new sport or hobby

• Going to the beach or the river

• Swimming with dolphins (on my bucket list)

• Flying in a controlled environment (e.g., iFly)

• Taking an art, paint, robotics, or jewelry class

  

• Going to a science or art museum

• Visiting a new town, city, or country

• Going to an amusement park or to the movies

• Getting on a plane, train, or boat

• Feeding farm or zoo animals

• Going to a theater and watching a musical or a play

• Going to a farm and learning about the animals and how to care for them

• Something as simple as getting on a bus and going on a field trip with classmates

By exposing our children to new experiences, not only do they acquire new knowledge, but we also open the door for them to have new opportunities and can even help them define their future interests. Do not force something on your child, let them experience it and decide for themselves if they enjoy it and would like to repeat or not.

Preparing for an experience

Build excitement and make the most of the moment by preparing ahead:

• Talk to your child about what you’ll be doing.

• Read a book related to the experience.

• Look up images or videos online to spark curiosity.

• Share your own photos or stories related to the activity.

You can also get creative with how you reveal the experience; consider using a fun voucher, a themed gift box, or a surprise announcement.

While the focus should be on enjoying the moment, taking a few photos can help capture those special memories. Later, you can create a scrapbook filled with your shared adventures, something far more meaningful than a shelf full of toys. Remember that material gifts may bring temporary happiness, but experiences offer long-lasting joy and valuable life lessons.

Benefits of Experiences for Kids

1. Experiences foster personal growth: Experiences can challenge us to step out of our comfort zones, learn new skills, and broaden our perspectives. Gifts may be enjoyable, but they don't offer the same opportunities for personal growth and development.

2. Experiences create connections: Shared experiences, such as traveling with family or attending a concert with a loved one, can create stronger bonds and deeper connections than material gifts.

3. Experiences are more environmentally friendly: Many physical gifts come with packaging and waste that can harm the environment. Experiences, on the other hand, are often more sustainable and eco-friendly.

4. Experiences are more unique: While physical gifts can be replicated, experiences are often unique and can't be duplicated. Each experience is special and tailored to the individual, making them more memorable and meaningful.

Final Thoughts

Choose gifts that truly matter and will impact your children's lives in a positive way. Experiences create lasting memories and life skills that outlast the temporary joy of toys. Let's start normalizing gifting experiences for kids.

Best wishes,

Mel