Being a grandmother brings out the best in us: spending time with our grandchildren and watching them grow and learn. Then, we send them home to be with our parents.
Grandmothers are known for giving gifts to grandkids. Gifts for grandchildren can be complicated. Some grandparents may not wish to spend too much on gifts for their grandchildren for fear of spoiling their children. Others might feel that grandparent expectations are being met by expensive gifts.
Here are some ideas to help you choose the best gift for your grandchildren.
Talk to Mom and Dad first
Talk to your grandchild’s parents before you spend too much money on gifts. While some children may prefer a loud, active toy, others might prefer a quiet book, puzzle, or board game.
Discover what TV shows and hobbies your grandchildren love the most. Children’s interests change rapidly, so the “must-have” toys of six months ago may not be the best.
It is a great way to communicate with your child’s parents and to show that you support their parenting decisions.
Before you jump into the wonderful world of glowing lights and buzzing motors today’s children’s toys market, ensure that your plans align with your grandkids.
Classic toys made of wood and textiles are better than new gadgets to avoid any family problems.
Quality is the key
Parents and children would rather have high-quality toys than disposable plastic ones, which is surprising considering the number of them. Donne suggests that you look for high-quality, simple products made of wood or fabrics if you have the funds. This logic is applicable to all ages of children.
Toys and building blocks made of high-quality materials may be more appealing to younger children. You might find something that appeals to your older children on Etsy and Handmadeology. Your teenage granddaughter might appreciate unique jewelry that suits her personal style.
There is one caveat: kids love to compare. You may find that your handmade toys and traditional toys are less valuable than the new PlayStation 2 purchased by you.
This can be avoided if you and your grandkids agree on a strategy with your parents. Everyone must agree on their gift-buying strategy.
Be sure the gift is appropriate for its age
You may have not had children in your home for a while so it is worth taking the time to research the gift. Also, consider whether it would be safe and appropriate for your grandchildren.
Most toys clearly indicate the recommended age ranges on their packaging. However, you can also consult magazine reviews to find the best toys for each age group. Parents magazine, for example, has a great article that lists the best toys for every age group.
Give the gift of experience!
You can give gifts for granddaughter that are more than toys and expensive gadgets. Instead of buying them toys, you could gift them an experience-based gift, such as tickets to a sporting event or membership to a museum or zoo.
You might also consider other types of “experiential gifts” such as cooking utensils or sporting equipment. It all depends on the activities that your grandkids enjoy. Sometimes, these gifts are simple and inexpensive. A new box of crayons from Grandma is enough to brighten a child’s day!
Give the gift of your time
It’s not a wise financial decision to buy too many gifts for grandchildren, especially if you are on a tight budget. Don’t overburden yourself financially. Instead, find ways to spend more time with grandchildren.
Take them to the park. You can host them at your home for a “weekend at Grandma’s.” They will love to read, garden, cook, sing, dance, and learn about you and what you love.
Your presence and attention are a lasting reminder to your grandchildren that you are there for them.
Personalized Gift
Sue Belding, author and Sixty and Me contributor, ordered stuffed animals that had a voice recording box. She found it on Amazon. Each grandchild received a stuffed animal personalized by Sue.
Consider Your Grandchildren Outside the House
Dave Price, a freelance writer and speaker who specializes in grandparenting, recommends that you consider the ages of other children. The latest Star Wars Lego set might be a favorite of your granddaughter, 10, or grandson, 9, respectively. Consider how many Lego sets are still unopened and stored in cupboards, for fear that younger siblings might swallow them.
Take a look at the Grandparents of Other Grandchildren
Dave also said that grandparents should be considerate towards each other. Grandparenting should not be a contest in an ideal world. But not all grandparents can afford the same amount.
Others grandparents (or parents) might consider your gift an attempt at showing love to your grandchildren. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be able to buy the gifts you desire. It just means you should consider all the implications for your family before you make any purchases.
Copyright – Classicalnet