Think Outside the Box

If your kids’ playroom is overstuffed already, you may be dreading the onslaught of toys that comes with each holiday season. Opt for something meaningful by giving them a great experience or personalized object—they’ll remember these thoughtful gifts long after the season’s latest toy has been forgotten. Pro tip: Pass these ideas on to grandparents, aunts and uncles as well.

If music is a mainstay in your child’s life, give them a certificate for a session at Poprocks, where they can record their own lyrics or a favourite tune to a DVD they can replay over and over. It really is a gift that keeps on giving.

We love giving books, but for kids who like the idea of creating their own, up the ante with a gift certificate to a comic-making class at the Annex-based Little Island Comics. Kids will come away from Megan Kearney’s class understanding character design, page layout, penciling and inking and more.

Toys may be tops in your child’s mind, but sometimes it’s the inspired alternate ideas that unexpectedly leave a lasting impression.

Keep clicking on—we’ve got 7 more Gifts Outside the Box for the holidays.