Illinois Parents: Ditch the Toys and Gift These Experiences

Instead of getting your kids (young or grown) toys or gadgets this year for Christmas, what about getting them an experience they'll never forget?

Growing up, my parents always got me toys and gadgets I really wanted.  Easy, simple, done.  That meant all these toys taking up space around their house that probably have been played with a handful of times.  Let's not clutter the house this time around!  Have you thought about the gift of experience?  It sounds way out of your budget, but it's hands-down more affordable than the video game system you're about to buy your kid.

Illinois Parents: Ditch the Toys and Gift These Experiences

These will give your kids something to look forward to, not just a moment of instant gratification on Christmas morning.  I saw this list on Facebook and had to share!

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• Museum Memberships - perfect for adventurous kids
• Kids Cooking Classes - teaching them real-life skills and eventually they'll do all the cooking in the house!
• Zoo Passes - easy, affordable, and fun!
• Bowling Passes - family night, am I right?
• Escape Rooms - great for older kids who love puzzles and working as a team.
• Ice Skating Lessons - introduce them to a new sport or hobby
• Trampoline Parks - great for gloomy days or cold, snowy weather
• Summer vacation of their choice (within reason!) - Let me them help plan a vacation.  Maybe give them three destinations to pick from to make it even more special!

There are even more experiences on this Mom Blog I found on Facebook!

These are the kinds of gifts that don't end up shoved under the bed or broken by New Year's.  They create memories your kids will talk about forever!  And honestly?  Life is easier with experience.  No more planning on "beating the crowds" this holiday season.  Thank me later!