Beyond “Stuff” – Gifts that Provide Long-Lasting Happiness

by Jamie Kaun

As a military family, we move a lot. In the last 10 years, we have moved eight times, including within the last few weeks into our new home.

Staring at the numerous boxes of my three children’s toys waiting for me to unpack them is completely overwhelming. Boxes and boxes of toys of all sizes (including five million Legos) is a lot of stuff. Christmas is quickly approaching and the thought of my children accumulating more stuff when they already have so much is daunting.

Many of you may also feel overwhelmed by the amount of stuff, particularly toys, that your children have. During this gift-giving season, consider giving less stuff and something that may have a longer-lasting effect – experiences. A quick Google search easily yields several studies that say while material items make people happy, that happiness is often short-term and experiences provide longer-lasting happiness.

Below are some ideas for experience gifts.

• YMCA classes – Sign your kiddo up for a class they haven’t taken before. The Dayton Ys have many options including art, dance, swim lessons and more!
   
• Cooking class – Dorothy Lane Market and The Little City Cooking School have cooking classes for all ages, including the youngest chefs!
   
• Museums– There are so many museums in our area! Check out Dayton Local for a list of them. Cincinnati museums and Columbus museums are just a short drive away.
  
• Zoos–Dayton.com has a great list of six zoos within a reasonable drive from our area.
   
• Community theater – There are multiple performing art theaters in the Dayton and Cincinnati areas.
   
• Nature centers – Enjoy the sounds of nature, countless animals and have fun learning at nature centers around our area.
   
• Hobbies–Purchase items that can be used for family activities, such as a tent for camping, new board games, sporting equipment, etc.
   
• Create artwork – Enjoy some creative time with your family at Paintbrush Pottery or Painting with a Twist.
   
• “Date” activities – Gift certificates to a favorite restaurant, movie tickets, bowling, etc. are fun ways to spend time with your children, especially if it’s not an activity you already do often. If possible, spend one-on-one time with each child to make it really special! For more date ideas, visit Raising Lifelong Learners and How Does She.
   
• Subscription boxes – This is a fun way for your loved one to receive a surprise on a regular basis. Check out Hip2Save for ideas for the whole family.
   
• Craft basket – Load up a basket full of art supplies, craft kits, etc. There are lots of things you can throw in there inexpensively from the Dollar Store and Target.
   
• Game night – If you’re not already doing game night regularly as a family, give it a try! It’s a fun way to connect with one another and “unplug” from technology. Check out Happy You, Happy Family, and Activities for some family-friendly ideas.
   
• Volunteer–Give the gift of helping others! Check out Dayton.com for a list of organizations in our area to volunteer. This list from Dayton Parent Magazine has ideas specifically for children.

While some experience gifts, such as memberships to zoos and museums, cost more up-front than a couple of toys, they may cost less in the long-run especially if you visit several times. And if your budget doesn’t allow for that large of an upfront investment, there are many affordable experiences (even some that are free!) your family can enjoy. Giving the gift of experiences gives you an opportunity to bond with your family and create lasting memories.

Want more ideas? Check out Wellness Mama and Happy You, Happy Family.