28 raring2go.co.uk If you want to get them something out of the ordinary this Christmas here are some ideas to get you started…….. ABC Arts and crafts supplies. Anything from googly eyes, pom-poms, sparkly paper, safe scissors or just lots of paper. Bath towel – as colourful as you can find, or one with a hood that’s makes for memorable bathtimes for years to come. Classes: book them in for baby massage, dance, drama, basketball, whatever takes their fancy. But make sure you’ve booked BEFORE you give them the news. DEF Digital camera. Prices start at £20, or give them your phone for the day and ask them to photograph the world through their eyes. Offer to print 20 images for them. E is for exercise. Get a skipping rope, flippers, a wobble cushion, a balance ball, goalposts, a mat – whatever will help them take fitness to the next level. Food: Get them their favourite cake or book a 1 on 1 meal or make up an authentic set of play items like cartons, boxes and spice jars for a shop or play bake-off. GHI Granny’s clothes. Or Grandpa’s. Fancy dress is often too commercialised, so why not make your child a dressing up box that’s full of cheap, real clothing? Think about stuff you have, or go for charity shop finds like old handbags, feather boas, hats, or material. Homemade. Don’t knock it, a gift that’s been personalised or created with love will be treasured more than you think. Instruments: listening to music is brilliant, but making it yourself is even better. From a simple rice shaker to a ukulele or recorder, music is a gift for life. JKL Jewellery. Something small and shiny, or big and trashy, depending on your child and your budget. Or an heirloom to pass on or something they can keep for when they’re grown up. Kaleidoscope – either buy one or make your own by saving cardboard tubes and small beads or sequins. Look up online for how to make one together. Letters. Proper old-fashioned snail mail is a rare treat for kids. Send a postcard or a letter or get them their own special stationery so they can write to a relative or a friend abroad. MNO Memberships. As well as being value for money, this is something the whole family could enjoy if you go regularly. You’re also first to hear about special offers. Nature up close. Give them something that helps them appreciate the natural world: a magnifying glass, a wormery, or a bird feeder. Or else plan a day out to a local park. A-Z of Non-Toy Gifts for Children Raring2go! CHRISTMAS
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