If you have kids, or know any kids that you need to buy a Christmas present for, try thinking about giving them moments not things or sustainable gifts. Not only will this be memorable, but it will also instil a sustainable consciousness within your kids from a young age.
I know that kids, especially younger ones, love toys and physical gifts. But looking back on my childhood, I don't remember any material gifts my parents gave me, I'm sure they broke or I grew out of whatever it was. But I do remember our holidays, our picnic's in the park, our trips to the cinema and theatre and countless more cultural and exciting experiences.
So, opt for an experiential gift for your kids this festive season, try one of these:
1. Plan a Holiday
Obviously this has financial restrictions and not everyone can do this. But even just small and inexpensive camping trips could work. Anything that your kids can remember as an experience. Don't forget to take photos!
2. Buy lessons
Music, art, language, riding etc. lessons are a great gift idea! This will give them a lifelong skill and offers the gift of knowledge, which is pretty darn great if you ask me.
3. Sporting registration
Buy your children a season registration for soccer or netball, this will create a plethora of memories that will last their entire lives. I think sport is very important for children, it teaches them how to be in a team and the responsibility of commitment.
4. A family project
Why not give the gift of spending time together and creating something? Quite possible your child might not appreciate a gift like that straight away, but within time they will realise how special moments like that are. Plant a vegetable garden together, make a meal together, make a family documentary or scrapbook (this is one of my favourites, it can become a family time capsule that you can all make together).
5. Sustainable DIY gift
Try making something that your kids will enjoy. Anything personally handmade shows how much effort you put into the gift, and really complies with the "it's the thought that counts saying"- as making something takes a lot of thought!
Here's over 100 DIY gift ideas for kids
Do you have any other ideas? Let us know in the comment box below.
I AGREE TO A NO WASTE FESTIVE SEASON.
In the days leading up to Christmas, 1 Million Women will offer an alternative to what has turned into a hugely consumerist holiday. We give you a path to take on which you can ignore the external pressures telling you to ‘buy more’ and that ‘the more you buy the happier you will make your loved ones’.
The Festive season is a time to share with your loved ones.