The holidays have arrived and there’s no greater joy for grandparents than purchasing gifts for their grandkids! December is Safe Toys and Gifts Month which is a perfect reminder to all grandparents to follow the tips we’ve got below before running out to buy.
1. Talk with the Parents First:
As excited as you may be to run out and purchase gifts for your grandkids, the first step you should take is to talk to your adult children/the parents of your grandkids for their input first. Holidays are stressful enough and sometimes a lack of communication about gifts for grandkids can cause added stress or even disagreements. Ask your adult children what gifts they think would be good for you to give and come up with a plan before you set foot in a store or hop onto Amazon to purchase.
2. Make Sure it Fits the Age of the Child:
Once you’ve been given the green light to purchase gifts for your grandkids, make sure the toy or object is appropriate for the age of your grandchild. Different age groups have different needs and developmental stages and toys that might be fine for one child might not be for the other even if they are twins and the same age. Look for age recommendations on the packaging to ensure the gift is safe and enjoyable for your grandchild’s stage of development.
3. Is it Safe?
What was considered safe for your kids when they were young is likely not these days. Safety is a top concern when buying gifts for your grandchildren, especially if there are other kids in the house. That Lego set for your 8-year-old grandchild might be a choking risk to the toddler in the house. Check for any potential choking hazards, sharp edges or small parts that could be dangerous. Avoid toys with toxic materials and read labels to make sure they are listed as non-toxic and meeting safety standards.
4. Space and Storage:
Keep in mind the available space in your grandkids’ homes when choosing gifts. Larger toys may require more storage, so it’s thoughtful to opt for items that won’t create clutter or inconvenience for the parents. Again read tip #1 above to communicate with the parents.
5. Experience-based Gifts:
You may be on a tight budget so consider an experience gift like a visit to the local children’s museum or a day at the zoo. Many local libraries have museum passes for discounted admission rates…some can even be free with these passes! Or come up with a gift idea that’s even more economical like a special day or evening making a fort in the living room and watching their favorite movie with popcorn. Or an afternoon making cookies and decorating them. Get creative, not all gifts need to be bought at a store! Giving the gift of a memorable adventure or just 1:1 time can create lasting bonds for both you and your grandkids.
6. Watch Out for Recalls:
Before buying, check for any recent recalls related to the toy or gift you’re getting. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website regularly updates recall lists. Stay informed to make sure you’re not accidentally buying a potentially dangerous product.
Want more? Check out our blog Turning Your Hobby into Income: Real-Life Success Stories and Tips for You
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