We live in a small cape cottage with plenty of charm and not much storage. Between the baby gear, toddler toys, and endless gifts, our cozy space has become one big obstacle course. Even though we’ve kindly asked friends and family to skip the toys (diapers, anyone?), they still seem to multiply after every birthday and holiday.
So if you’re in the same boat and craving a little less clutter, here are my favorite things to buy for kids instead of toys. These gifts are fun, practical, and actually useful.
10 Fun and Meaningful Gifts to Buy Kids Instead of Toys
If you’re tired of overflowing toy bins, here are creative, practical, and meaningful gift ideas kids will love without adding to the clutter.
1. Clothing
This is at the top of my list because it is a constant need in my home. With a growing toddler, I constantly have to replace a size or purchase new items for the changing seasons. Kids’ clothes are costly and wear out quickly, so receiving them as gifts is financially helpful.
2. Magazine Subscriptions
My daughter recently received a Highlights magazine subscription and has absolutely loved each edition she has gotten so far. This is the perfect gift idea if you want to purchase something educational. I love it as a parent because it provides kids with vivid stories and activities like coloring, puzzles, and sticker pages that will keep your little ones entertained for hours.
3. Books
In keeping with the educational theme, books also make great gifts. You can find children’s books about any topic, so it’s easy to find something your child will enjoy. Also, many books come with other perks like an included poster, stickers, or plush. Inscribing your name, date, and occasion makes it a great keepsake.
For all the great books for kids, check out these articles:
- 40+ of the Best Children’s Books by Age
- 30 Classic Books to Read Aloud to Your Child
- Books for Teaching Children About Diversity
- 20 Books About Gratitude for Kids
- 20 Kindergarten Books We Love
- The Top 20 First-Grade Books, According to Educators
- 20 Must-Have Books to Start Your Baby’s Library
- Top Books for 2-Year-Olds
- Top Books for 3-Year-Olds
- Top 20 Books for 4-Year-Olds
4. Gift Cards or a Certificate
Giving the child a gift card to the movies or a favorite restaurant can be a great way to spend time together. Allowing them to choose the movie they want to see or going out to dinner together makes the child feel special. Another option is giving a certificate for a pet that the whole family can pick out together.
5. Membership to a Local Zoo or Aquarium
This gift is excellent for children who love animals and enjoy being outside. Unlimited visits are the best feature, but many zoos and aquariums have special events for members only, and often will include guest passes and free parking with a membership.
6. Passes to a Local Theme Park
This is one of the best gifts to give a kid! It allows them to burn off some energy and is good exercise. Many theme parks also offer a water park and endless dining or snack options, so plan to spend the day. There are usually kiddie rides and play areas, as well as slower-paced rides like a train or Ferris wheel, which are suitable for parents to enjoy with their young children.
7. Paying for a Class or Lesson Program
This gift option is versatile, from music, art, or dance lessons to a one-time paint-your-own pottery cup class. This gives you many different options to satisfy any child’s interests.
8. Learning Tools
This is an excellent option for kids of all ages. You could get a chalkboard (with chalk), an easel with finger paints, or a desk to draw or color at for toddler age. For older kids, science kits or cooking kits are popular and educational.
9. Family Experiences
This option would include tickets to the fair or a festival, taking a train ride, attending a sporting event, or even going on a family vacation! From simple to extravagant, there is an experience gift to fit every budget.
10. Money Towards a Savings Account
This is perhaps the easiest gift to give since no shopping is required. This is a great option for elderly relatives or friends who may have difficulty traveling to the store or shopping. Paired with a piggy bank, this also makes an ideal first birthday gift to kick-start their savings account.
Less really is more when it comes to kids’ gifts. Choosing practical, meaningful presents over piles of toys helps create more memories and less mess.
