Kiddipedia
If you’re a parent, it’s likely that you’re about to start embarking on the annual gift-buying ritual; trawling the latest catalogues, strolling the toy aisles at your local department store; frantically searching for the latest branded merch that will deliver before Christmas.
So, here’s the bad news. All of that effort – and financial pain – simply may not be worth it. In fact, a 2019 survey by British Heart Foundation discovered that, on average, a child gets just over a month of enjoyment from a new toy before it is forgotten and discarded. In some cases, children lose interest in new toys within a day, or even a few hours.
This means, in some cases, it can take longer for you to find and buy a gift than will actually be spent playing with it.
What we really want when we give a gift is for the recipient to feel a boost of happiness and joy. But very few families have the kind of money to throw away on a few weeks’ (or a few hours’) entertainment.
The good news is that by changing the way you approach gift selection, there are ways you can spend your money more wisely and buy gifts that will remain meaningful and inspiring long into the future. The trick is to tap into the realm of Positive Psychology and understand the true nature of happiness.
With that in mind, here are a few evidence-based ideas for gift giving that will boost your child’s happiness and well-being this holiday season, and reduce financial waste.
Note: these gift ideas are just as impactful for the ‘grown ups’ in your life so do consider how you can adapt these tips to suit your partner, parents, and other adult loved ones!
Gift an experience: Studies are pretty clear about this – we are happiest when we receive experiences, rather than possessions. When you gift an experience, you are actually gifting a lifetime memory that won’t just boost happiness at the time of the experience, but also in the lead up to the event, and every time the recipient reflects back on that moment.
Consider your child’s interests or hobbies and look for events or experiences which involve their participation. This may be tickets to a favourite performer’s concert, season tickets to a favourite sports team, an introductory experience to a longed-for hobby or career (such as flying a plane, horse-riding, hot air ballooning, or motor sports), or any other experience that will feel special to them (such as a spa treatment, shopping spree, or beach holiday).
Fund an act of kindness or charity: When we are kind and generous to others, our brains reward us with a powerful boost of wellbeing and happiness. If you have a compassionate and/or sensitive child, don’t underestimate the joy that you can enable by funding an act of generosity or kindness.
For the most impactful results, empower your child to recognise and express their ability to be altruistic. Buy a gift voucher from a reputable crowd-sourcing website and ask your child to choose who to donate to. Or, virtually adopt an animal or underprivileged person that your child can feel connected to (and perhaps receive updates on). Micro-loans are another great way for your child to understand the power of their agency and altruism. Select a micro-loan site and allow your child to choose the small business they would like to support.
Instigate a reunion: Studies show that social connection is one of the most important elements of a long, happy life. We are happier when we are able to spend quality time with the people we enjoy most. Therefore, a great gift is one that reconnects your child with individuals they love. Has a best friend moved away? Is there a dearly-loved relative they haven’t seen for a while?
Depending on your budget, you can arrange a reunion trip for your child, a dinner out for everyone involved, or simply invite ‘surprise guests’ to your festive celebrations.
Remember, too, to be gentle on yourself and consider gifting you some happiness. The holiday season can be particularly stressful, difficult, and busy. And one of the greatest things you can do for your loved ones is be fully present, refreshed, and in your best possible frame of mind.
Therefore, gift yourself some time for mindfulness, rest, and self-care in these coming weeks. Take steps to lighten your emotional load and boost your happiness: offer an overdue apology, extend forgiveness to someone, and/or say “no” to unnecessary drama in your life.
Kim Forrester is an award-winning author, holistic well-being educator, and found of Soulfuelly well-being hub. Kim blends science with spiritual philosophy to inspire fullness of living, and regularly contributes to well-being and lifestyle publications all over the world. Follow Kim on social media @soulfuellyglobal
