In today’s world, the buzzphrase “experiences over things” is everywhere, especially during the holiday season. We live in a time where our homes are overflowing with possessions, and many of us aspire to prioritize meaningful experiences instead of material goods. While celebrities may indulge in extravagant gifts, as parents, we strive to reduce the clutter of physical items in our kids’ lives.
Did you know that although only 3 percent of the world’s children reside in the United States, they account for a staggering 40 percent of global toy consumption? A concerning survey from Britain revealed that children typically engage with merely 5 percent of their toys, likely due to being overwhelmed by sheer volume.
In my informal study—conducted in the comfort of my kitchen—I found that three-quarters of children struggle to recall their gifts from the previous year without significant assistance, and only half can identify more than one present.
While the phrase “experiences over things” sounds appealing, it can be difficult to implement. Kids often express a strong desire for the latest gadgets, and planning experiences requires time and commitment. You might find joy in a relaxing weekend at home, but your children may not share that enthusiasm when they unwrap a note hinting at such an experience.
Although experiences tend to create lasting memories and contribute to happiness, it’s natural to want to witness the excitement on a child’s face as they unwrap a long-desired gift. This year, as I compiled wish lists from my kids, I noted that out of eighteen items, only one was for something intangible: one daughter asked for “my own room.” Sorry, sweetheart.
I suspect these wish lists are more influenced by societal norms and holiday traditions rather than genuine desires. Personally, I can easily identify what my children would enjoy doing together. For instance, my youngest son would be thrilled to gather the family for a game of Monopoly from start to finish. The daughter wishing for her own room would cherish an afternoon of crafting with me, free from sibling distractions. My oldest son would swap his coveted headphones for tickets to a Bruins game, while my younger daughter would relish a day in the kitchen where she could take the lead.
These ideas aren’t extravagant; they’re achievable. Moreover, each can include a tangible gift element—such as tickets, crafting supplies, or a Monopoly set with all the pieces intact. However, there’s always a risk that these family activities could become disappointing if not properly planned. To avoid this, consider scheduling the fun in advance and including a countdown calendar with the gift, ensuring the experience is more memorable than yet another trendy toy.
This isn’t to say that popular toys like headphones are bad gifts—they certainly have their place. However, research shows that 61 percent of parents believe their children would engage with a wider variety of toys if they participated alongside them. Ultimately, it’s the connections we create that matter most. Thus, the motto “experiences over things” evolves from a trendy catchphrase to a valuable reminder that gifts best enjoyed together are often the most cherished.
If you’re looking to prioritize experiences this holiday season, here are some suggestions:
- Plan a Family Outing: While Broadway shows and sporting events are popular, consider a winter getaway to a budget-friendly hotel with a pool. You could also pair a movie gift card with snacks to enjoy during a scheduled outing. Mark your calendar for a trip to a local farm or petting zoo in the spring, and present a cute calendar featuring adorable baby animals as part of the gift.
- Take a Class Together: Whether it’s cooking, crafting, or another skill, find a class that you and your child can enjoy. This could also be a fun opportunity for a grandparent or other family member to join in.
- Try a Kit: Winter vacation often provides more downtime than any other time of year, making it perfect for engaging in hands-on activities. Building a Useless Machine or creating DIY lip balm can be enjoyable projects. It’s important that an adult is involved to keep the momentum going.
- Subscribe to Activity Kits: Consider a subscription service like Tinker Crate, which delivers age-appropriate projects monthly, or cooking subscription boxes for parent-child duos. Lillypost offers a box of wrapped books for kids, making reading even more exciting.
- Get Gaming: Board games remain timeless favorites, but look into digital group games that can be enjoyed on a TV or computer. Just be sure to select family-friendly options to avoid any embarrassing moments.
- Create a Plan: Even if the experience isn’t a gift, make an effort to share special moments during the holiday season. Engage in activities like making a gingerbread house or celebrating Jolabokaflod, an Icelandic tradition of giving books on Christmas Eve for a cozy evening of reading together.
In conclusion, let’s aim to shop less, spend more quality time together, and see what brings the most joy when next year rolls around. For more insights on family experiences, check out Modern Family Blog, which offers valuable perspectives on this topic, or explore this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination. And if you’re considering ways to boost fertility, you might find helpful information in our article about fertility supplements.