It’s natural for kids to want pricey tech items like tablets, because they see their parents on them all the time. However, these gadgets are often expensive, and sometimes the best gifts are the simple ones. They’re also better for children’s developing brains. Instead of splurging on big-ticket items, we suggest some affordable educational gift ideas that will promote creativity and positive development.

 Get their creative juices flowing with art supplies

Art supplies are exciting and affordable. There are many different options to choose from; colored pencils, paints, and crayons are a few possibilities. For older kids, you can also look into crafting goods like beadwork. With these gifts, you encourage kids to get creative. Working with yarn helps kids improve bilateral coordination, enhance fine motor coordination, and deepen their attention to detail. Being able to make something all on their own and show it off to other people is a wonderful way to boost self esteem. 

Sign them up for a local sports team

 If your child has loads of energy, signing them up for a local sports team is a great option. Exercise is important for young people, promoting healthy growth while strengthening muscles and bones. Team sports like basketball and soccer can teach valuable life skills, such as how to lead and how to follow, how to control emotions, and how to set and achieve goals. Kids will get an education in the realities of life, such as the fact that success requires practice and hard work. Look to your local Boys and Girls Club of America for low-cost sports and recreation programs. They offer everything from flag football to soccer, baseball, and softball.

 Get them helping around the house

 Another way to develop fine motor skills is with a children’s tool set. Sets that are functional and durable don’t have to be expensive. The next time you need to tighten a screw or hang a shelf, get your kid to help. Spending time together learning skills they’ll have all their lives is the best gift of all. And if you’re a mom, don’t underestimate the importance of setting an example through influence that will last a lifetime. Some of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs owe their ambition to lessons from moms, parents who were intentionally involved in their lives.

Once they’re comfortable using tools, you can even get them to help with small repairs on the car. Even if they’re too young for it, they’re never too young to help change a tire. Once they’ve helped to do it, they’ll always remember, and it could come in handy 15 years down the road. If you need to brush up on your own car knowledge, there are great resources online. It’s not like the old days where only the mechanics had the know-how. Getting kids confident around cars is something that will stick with them forever.

 Encourage the young chef in your house

 With a meal kit delivery service like Hello Fresh, everything you need to help your kid prepare dinner arrives at your door. Your kid can learn to follow menu directions, the common measuring techniques used in cooking, while you chop the vegetables if they’re not ready to use a knife. You save a trip to the grocery store and the meal you make together will be delicious. Your kid will be able to say, “I did that!”

 Find Priceline travel deals for an unforgettable family experience

 Giving your child experiences instead of physical objects can be very beneficial. It's been shown that people derive more happiness from experiences. This is also a way to promote social connection. Book a bonding family trip with a platform like Priceline, which provides deals when you book your accommodation, flights, and rental car as a package. Save even more by searching online for cashback deals.

 Travel gives your kids an educational experience as they learn about new places. But you don’t have to travel to find educational experiences. Research discounts for local museums and look for free cultural events at your local library.

 With a little looking around you can find gifts for kids that will help get them off the tablets and phones. Affordable, educational presents will broaden their horizons. And you’d be surprised, because most kids would be thrilled with gifts like these.

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NextWave STEM offers innovative educational experiences using emerging technologies, igniting a passion for learning that leads to improved academic outcomes and opens up new opportunities post high school and throughout one’s career. (312) 600-8239