I was talking to my daughter-in-law today and she asked me if I wanted an idea for a Christmas gift for the kids. Of course I said, “Yes!” I had just been talking to another grandma who had a toy catalogue in her hand for advice but also said she wasn’t going to buy anything the kids didn’t want. With everyone being cautious about spending this year, we don’t want to buy toys or games that won’t be used.
Anyway, Katie asked if we would like to buy a year’s membership in their children’s museum for the kids. I loved the idea. The membership at the Children’s Museum of Wilmington in North Carolina includes many free classes including holiday crafts in the Art Room, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” storytime by local celebrities, The Cat in the Hat Games (which are REALLY fun by the way), and letters to Santa.
In Connecticut, you know I love The Stepping Stones Children’s Museum in Norwalk, CT. Get a Stepping Stones passport and get it stamped each month as programs present a different country with activities and performances highlighting characteristics and traditions from that country. November is Australia. The next Family Fun Night features Winnie the Pooh for dinner and pictures with Pooh himself. Come to interactive story times and meet the authors.
Another great idea for holiday gift giving by grandparents is to give a year’s subscription to a children’s magazine. My favorites are from National Geographic Kids and The National Wildlife Association. Check out the magazines by age of the child you are giving them to. “Your Big Backyard,” “Animal Baby” and “Ranger Rick” are all favorites with kids.
