11 Local Kids’ Gifts That Aren’t Toys

As much as we love this season of giving, there comes a time when there are just too many toys under the tree. It's said happiness is more readily found through experiences rather than things. Stretch out the spirit of the season with these gifts that will stay in their hearts and minds for a long time to come.

Zoo visits are so much more memorable when you get up close and personal with the wildlife. Tuck into pancakes with these adorable creatures and learn cool factoids during your private viewing.

Feel a rush of adrenaline as you lead a pack of huskies through the scenic Spray Valley near Canmore. With Howling Dog Tours, wee ones can ride in the dog sled or, if they're old enough, drive the team through the snowy woods.

Experience a night at the museum—for real. Dig deep for fossils and snore with the dinosaurs at Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller. Families with children five to 13 years can participate in ‘camp-ins' starting in February.

Tobogganing is fun and all, but tubing takes the cake. Hit the slopes of Mount Norquay for a day whizzing down the mountain at the Snow Tube Park. Cap off your adventure with a round of hot chocolate.

YMCA Strong Kids program helps kids live happier, healthy lives. Consider buying a drop-in pass for a day of swimming and basketball for your family, and make a donation to support a family in need.

We're often so busy sussing out the exhibits (and the Creative Kids Museum), that we don't budget time for a Planetarium Show at TELUS Spark. Steer wee ones towards to the infinite universe with a screening of a cool science movie or star show.

Hiking can be hard with young kids. Luckily Rocky Mountain highs are easily reached at Banff Gondola. Soak up the bird's eye views of six mountain ranges and say hello to mountain goats that like to linger around the observation deck.

Disney's Beauty and the Beast makes its way to the Jubilee Auditorium February 17–22. This classic musical love story is a great way to introduce the tykes to the theatre and is sure to have them grooving in their seats.

Your children will learn that giving is its own reward with a Saturday stint volunteering at Heaven Can Wait animal shelter in High River. Youngsters help refill food and water bowls, clean kennels and shower animals with patience and love.

Kids who love sushi adore picking their favourite dishes off the rotating sushi bar at Kinjo. Fuel their passion for healthy eating with one of Kinjo's sushi making classes.

Imagine having an entire village all to yourself. Book a weekend sleepover at Heritage Park from January to April and you'll have the run of the joint. After dozing off in the barn, guests are treated to breakfast and an interactive scavenger hunt.