articles

6 Non-Toy Gift Ideas for Kids

Toy Alternatives for Birthdays & Holidays

By Janel Plunkard, Publisher of Macaroni Kid Springfield MO February 21, 2020

1. Memberships – Family or individual membership passes make great gifts that last all year long! Some fun options to consider are the local children's museum, art museum, aquarium, zoo, or a community center with a pool.


2. Lessons – Help them learn something new or build on a talent they already have! You can find lots of fun options: horseback riding, coding, swimming, music, singing, cooking, art, theater, martial arts...


3. Adventures – Create a local adventure and plan a day out! Make an itinerary to print, and visit some of your favorite spots and check out a few you've been wanting to! Riddles and scavenger hunts make really fun ways to have kids uncover all of the fun events that will take place during an adventure day, too! 


4. Books – Books are amazing and open the doors to so much! Visit a local bookstore and learn what new or classic books the staff suggest based on your child's interests. They may even have some ideas for you!


5. Tickets - Experience gifts such as tickets create memories that last. Theater tickets, movie tickets, amusement park tickets, aquarium tickets, concert tickets, baseball tickets, etc. 


6. Family Vacation – Gift wrap plane tickets & an itinerary, or hints about this year's fun & exciting family vacation.