Each year, you hope to purchase holiday gifts that will enrich your children’s lives, from educational games to toys that develop large and small motor skills, to equipment for activities to must-have clothing. Sometimes, you feel it’s impossible to select presents. What can you give your child that will make a lasting impression but not contribute to the amount of “stuff” they already have?
Bay Street Pediatrics is here to help! We are recommending holiday presents to complement your children’s lives. With these gifts, your child will understand that you admire their individual personality and their interests, no matter how different from yours they may be.
Memberships
When child has shown an interest in science, art or nature, consider a membership to the Connecticut Science Center, Mystic Aquarium or the Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens. You can also think beyond museums and consider a membership to Ambler Farm, a sports training facility, or a trampoline or jump zone, where your child can move robustly even during the cold months. HOLIDAY GIFT FOR YOU – because you can purchase a family package, you’re also getting yourself the gift of time with your children.
If you’re on a budget, go to your local library. Most have free passes to museums, zoos and more.
Classes
You can also purchase classes or workshops at these local museums, or you can expand horizons by giving your child classes at a local art center like Silvermine, where they can refine their skills in drawing, painting, jewelry, sculpting and more. If your child is more physically minded, they will enjoy martial arts, dance or swim lessons. When your child loves to perform, consider acting or singing lessons. Give cooking classes and enjoy dinner when your child uses their newly acquired skills!
Backstage Tours
It’s fun to see a play, but it’s even better to see the backstage! That type of adventure doesn’t have to stop at a theater. Fascia’s Chocolates will let you go behind the scenes, as will Avery’s Beverages and Cornwall Bridge Pottery Store & Workshop. If your family is traveling in the near future, learn how baseball bats are made in Louisville or discover the magic of Hershey’s. If you have a favorite local bakery or restaurant, ask for a tour – they may be delighted to show you around!
Experiences
Older kids will love an escape room experience, especially if you include a ticket for a friend or two in the purchase. Give them an opportunity to do something completely new, such as a hot air balloon ride, rock climbing or zip lining. When shared with friends and family, these unplugged moments will create memories that will last a lifetime – and keep the holidays alive for months to come.
Tickets
Winter is the perfect time for outings! There are so many opportunities here in Connecticut; we live in a theater-goers paradise, simply surrounded by professional and local community performances of all kinds for all ages. You can start here for local theatre. Visit Goldstar for tickets to regional events – either discounted and often free – to plays, concerts, sporting events and much more.
Cons
Much more fun than a business conference, take your child to ComicCon. If that’s not their jam, consider a full weekend away at the Con of their interest, like BroadwayCon, WonderCon or one of the dozens of AnimeCons across the country. There’s even an amazing fan event right here in Connecticut, ConnectiCon, that celebrates all things pop culture, with cosplay, gaming, celebrities and workshops.
Giving our children experiences during the holidays demonstrates that you are engaged with their interests and care about what excites them. Here at Bay Street Pediatrics, we hope that this list inspires parents and grandparents, giving you a starting point to brainstorm your own marvelous, personalized ideas this holiday season.