Great Gifts That Won’t Break the Bank

Tips — By Dr. Mommy on December 1, 2008 at 8:50 am

Wow, can you believe it is already time to shop for Christmas!!  It is absolutely crazy how the shops have been decorated since October!  I am one that does not like to be caught up in the crowded malls rushing around for the perfect gift.  So, I actually make my list throughout the year and every time one of my children mentions something they would like or just can’t live without.

Having 5 children with all different personalities and tastes, it is quite challenging but I was able to come up with some creative gifts that will last the entire year.  They are fun to put together and perhaps may help you with your gift ideas.

So here are some of my gifts that have been very much loved in our home:

• Craft Boxes – A family favorite every year.  I purchase a rubber maid type of box large enough to fill with all types of craft goodies.  I purchase crayons, markers, colored pencils, scissors and so much more during the back to school sales.  I also fill the box with colored paper, glue sticks, rulers, finger paints, paint brushes and stickers.  Don’t forget the sketch pad, and coloring books.  This gift keeps them entertained all year long and each child has their own box.  They end up sharing the items and everyone has a wonderful time.
• Dress-up Trunk – This is a perfect gift for your little ones and will enhance their imagination.  I like to purchase costumes after Halloween where I can get them at huge discounts.  I also scope the thrift stores and consignment shops for over sized shirts, ties, hats, shoes and costume jewelry.  Ask your family members for items they no longer use and fill your box with unique items that will keep your child entertained for hours and you will be happy because it was a gift that was not very expensive.
• For Your Little Chef – One of my children loves to cook and wants to be a chef when she grows up, so I creative a Chef’s kit.  I purchased a chef’s hat, along with apron that I personalized with puffy paints.  I also purchased safe utensils for her to use along side Mommy in the kitchen.  I can’t wait to see her face when she opens this gift Christmas morning.
• Construction Kits – My boys love to build things, and when I say things, that’s exactly what they build:) Not quite sure what they build, but it keeps them entertained for hours.  Throughout the year, I purchase legos of all sizes.  I go to garage sales and consignment shops and purchase legos galore.  My oldest loves to build with k-nex pieces, so I add those as well.  The year I put this kit together was the best they ever had.  To this day, they use their construction kit and they continue to build ‘things’ all the time.
• Beauty Kits – This has to be the absolute favorite for the little princess in your house.  I have several princesses, so this is always a hit in our home.  I purchase an inexpensive make-up bag or box found in many stores.  I then purchase the travel size containers of lotion, cotton balls and sample size make-up.  I also purchase nail polish and fake stick on nails and they love those.  It great to see the little girls try to be like Mommy with their make-up and hair creations.

I enjoy making these kits for the kiddos and hope it has given you some ideas to purchase some creative, yet inexpensive gifts for your children that will last the entire year.

The Chronicles continue….

Tags: gift ideas, holiday gift ideas, money saving tips, unusual gift ideas