I have 3 rules for gift giving for youth...
RULE #1- Your gift should be well thought out, meaningful and show some effort on your part.
RULE #2- Your gift should NOT be expensive (unless you are independently wealthy) The receiver will not enjoy thinking you have spent your mission or college funds on getting them something amazing. It will take away from the gift instead of making it a WOW gift! $25 should be more than enough.
RULE #3- Your gift should include at least a small not telling them why they mean so much to you. Keep it fun, light and interesting!
Here are some ideas for gifts to give. I will add to this list occasionally, so check back!
- Create a CD with 5-10 songs that remind you of them (remember to keep it fun, light & interesting)
- Create or buy a key chain that resents the college they want to go to, the HS they attend or a favorite movie or sport team.
- Hand decorate a picture frame (5"x7" or smaller) with a picture or you or the two of you together.
- Create a wallet using general household items, (gum containers, duct tape etc)
- Create a small lamp using old or recycled items. Google how to, there are several ways...
- Create a board game for them taking ideas from events you both had the past year.
- Create a photo album using favorite facebook photos. Add funny captions
- Make a fleece blanket with their favorite sport or team on it.
- "Star" their door. Create 50 stars, write 50 reasons they make you smile, tape them to their door or ask one of their family members to tape them for you on Christmas morning.
- Create a bracelet using small household items or stubs from events you went to together.
- Fill a stocking with their favorite goodies.
Most important is to just let them know you remember them during this most wonderful CHRISTMAS TIME! Have fun creating!
