Are your kids already drowning in a sea of toys and possessions? Consider the joy of experience gifts, a thoughtful option with advantages for kids, parents, and gift-givers alike. These gifts provide your child with the chance to forge lasting memories while exploring activities they might not have encountered otherwise. An additional perk is the absence of storage concerns once the initial excitement wears off, eliminating the need to find space for yet another toy.
Discover additional ways to create seasonal memories this year in our Holiday Fun Guide and our Event Calendar.
Here are some great experience gift ideas for every child on your list:
A Season Pass
A fun gift cherished by many families is a season pass or membership to a local attraction. Which not only saves money but also will motivate you to explore and appreciate our beautiful city, creating last memories in the process. Consider options like a membership to Blank Park Zoo, The Science Center of Iowa, Greater Des Moines Botanical Center, a YMCA or other gym membership, or an aquatic center pass.
Subscription Box
A subscription box makes an excellent gift idea, especially for those challenging-to-shop-for tweens and teens. These boxes cater to various ages, interests, and budgets, ensuring there’s an option for everyone. Whether your child is passionate about science, reading, art, games, or sports, there’s likely a subscription box tailored to their preferences. Explore options such as Hullaballoo (readers), Silk & Sonder (writers), Little Passports (travel enthusiasts), Green Kid Crafts (STEAM enthusiasts), KidPik (fashionistas), Doodle Crate (artists), Lovevery (for babies), Think Outside (adventurers), and Raddish (chefs).
Classes and Camps
Consider the thoughtful gift of prepaid classes or camps tailored to your child’s specific interests. Fortunately, Des Moines offers tons of extracurricular opportunities for kids! While classes and camps may come with a price tag, the value they provide is immeasurable, offering children the chance to forge new friendships and explore exciting activities. The city boasts a multitude of fantastic options for you to explore. Be sure to peruse our articles on Camps & Classes for inspiration and ideas.
Travel
Consider combining your holiday and vacation budget to take a family trip. Whether it’s an overnight trip to Kansas City or a cross country trip to California, travel offers a wonderful opportunity to introduce your child to diverse locations while simultaneously creating lasting family memories.
Tickets
Consider gifting tickets to a favorite sporting event, concert, or show. Enhance the experience by pairing the tickets with a matching T-shirt for the event or the added excitement of a backstage tour, making the day even more memorable for everyone involved. Explore ticket options at the Iowa Events Center, offering access to events like the Iowa Wild, Iowa Wolves, Iowa Barnstormers, and touring concerts. Additionally, Des Moines Performing Arts is a great resource for touring Broadway shows, kids’ theater productions, and more.
Box it Up
If you’re on a budget or even if you’re not, consider assembling a thoughtful box filled with various items for your child’s enjoyment. Craft a movie box by including movie tickets, along with some candy, popcorn, and a cozy blanket. Alternatively, create an art box with an assortment of art supplies, a sketchbook, paints, and other crafting materials. For a culinary adventure, put together a cooking box featuring ingredients for homemade playdough along with cookie cutters. You could also explore themes like gardening by assembling a gardening box complete with seeds, gardening gloves, and tools. Let your creativity shine as you combine your child’s interests to craft a personalized and unique box.
Adventure Gifts
For the adventurous child, consider exploring experience gifts that provide them with the opportunity to try activities outside their usual routine. Exciting options could include horseback riding, fishing, camping, rock climbing, or a day at a gym featuring obstacle courses or trampolines. Discover more inspiring ideas in our article, “Create a Box Full of Local Adventures for Your Des Moines Kids.”
Whatever you choose, think beyond the conventional options. Take a moment to slow down and resist getting caught up in the fast pace of the season. Reflect on what truly works for your family and resist the urge to be overwhelmed by the many things you may think your child needs. Focus on what you know they genuinely need—more quality time with family and friends!
