Introduction
Every year at the holidays, families across America scramble to find that one perfect present for their grandchildren. Revamping a room, getting a science kit, or picking up some new clothes are always potential presents. Though these gifts have been sent many times before and will be sent again this year, it is important to remember that every child is unique and what might be perfect for one may not work for another.
It’s not easy to buy a meaningful gift for your grandchildren when you know that their children will be taking care of them in retirement. This means that they may be financially more independent while also receiving social security benefits and being able to live on a fixed income. If your grandchildren are 12-years old or older, consider giving them an educational gift; this will help them prepare for the future, which is inevitable if they want to stay competitive in the workforce.
Meaningful Gift Ideas For Your Grandchildren
1. Save The Date
Your grandchildren will be thankful for the help planning their wedding. They’ll definitely take you up on this offer and will send back a picture of where they’re going to celebrate their new life together! You can even go as far as helping them pick out the venue or even booking a dinner at the restaurant that they have chosen, saving them time and money.
2. The Gift Of Education
If your grandchildren are about to begin or are in college, gift cards to iTunes or Amazon can be great for textbooks, music and for purchasing books online. You can send a text or email to let them know so they don’t start saving the card until they need it.
3. The Gift Of Experience
Grandparents can help grandchildren with summer camp and after school lessons. You will also be helping them learn how to live on their own and manage money, which is a huge lesson that most students never receive at home. If you are looking for a gift that has no strings attached, consider giving your grandchildren experience in the workplace, where they will learn the importance of hard work in order to make good money that will help them live comfortably in a retirement home.
4. The Gift Of Support
You can help your grandchildren financially by giving them a check in the mail at any time throughout the year. This will help them with any purchase that they need to make or allow them to participate in a special activity, like a sports team. If you are looking for an inexpensive but meaningful gift that allows your grandchildren to have fun and enjoy themselves, then giving someone a monthly gift card is a great choice, because it will give them the freedom to buy what they want, when they want it.
5. The Gift Of Travel
If your grandchildren are planning a trip to visit you, then don’t forget to help them out with transportation. If they live close enough and have their own car or can take the bus, then you may want to consider giving them an airline or train ticket to make the visit a little easier on them.
6. The Gift Of Liberty
In many cases your grandchildren will be moving into their new home alone, which means that they will have the freedom to decide what kind of house they want. Don’t hesitate to offer your advice, because they will be glad you were there when they are searching for a place to live. You may also want to help them move into their new home if they are transporting furniture and other large items.
7. The Gift Of A Warm Hearted Conversation
Gift cards can be impersonal and even though you want your grandchildren to enjoy the items that they’re receiving, it can sometimes be easier for them to pick out their own presents than having someone else do it for them. However, if they’re not going to get the item from you, then why not let them choose from a list of choices that you have made up?
8. The Gift Of A Small Bushel Of Love
There is nothing nicer than getting a gift that was thought out for someone. You can always make your grandchildren feel loved by giving them a small piece of fruit or vegetable – something small but unique and special. For example, if their favorite food is apples and you have an apple tree in your backyard, why not give them an apple from the tree as a special gift that shows how much you care about their well-being.
9. The Gift Of A Surprise
Grandparents can also surprise their grandchildren with gifts that they didn’t know they wanted. For example, you might have a friend or family member who is retiring and wants her house to be fully furnished, which means there is not much choice in furniture or decorating. If you are willing to help, then why not surprise your grandchildren with all the furniture that they would like in their home one day? You can even ask for feedback on what items will be most useful and what doesn’t work for them.
10. The Gift Of Respect
Your grandchildren might have been teased growing up by a certain sibling and have been treated poorly because of it. If your grandchildren are going to be moving in with a family member or living in a small apartment on their own, then why not treat them to key chains, car air fresheners or even matching luggage that will help them feel special?
Conclusion
The most meaningful gifts are those that come from the heart. Your grandchildren will remember the times that they spent with their grandparents and may even tell stories about how you would give them a special piece of fruit on days when they didn’t feel well. As you can see, there a number of ways that you can make the holidays extra special for your grandchildren and make sure that no matter what age they’re at, your gift will be remembered for years to come.