Experience Gifts for Kids: Better Than More Toys

Why Experience Gifts Matter More Than More Toys

As parents, we’re all too familiar with the mountain of toys that seems to multiply after every birthday and holiday. The initial thrill of a new gadget or plush friend is undeniable—especially for younger kids, who genuinely light up at the sight of a shiny new toy. Research confirms that children between ages three and twelve experience the most intense joy from material gifts, with the effect peaking around ages three to five [1]. But as any parent who’s stepped on a forgotten action figure can attest, that joy is often fleeting. Toys break, get lost, or simply lose their appeal as the next new thing comes along.

What’s fascinating is how children’s appreciation for gifts evolves as they grow. While younger kids are developmentally wired to crave tangible items, their capacity to value experiences increases with age. By the time children reach their tween and teen years, they’re more likely to cherish a day at a science museum or a family trip than another toy car or doll [1]. This shift is rooted in cognitive development—older kids begin to form stronger memories and a deeper understanding of shared experiences, making these gifts more meaningful and memorable.

But the benefits of experience gifts go far beyond developmental milestones. Shared experiences foster genuine family connection, creating stories and inside jokes that become part of your family’s fabric. According to a Consumer Reports analysis, most people rank spending time with loved ones as the best part of the holidays—far above receiving gifts [2]. Experiences, whether big or small, become the moments kids remember into adulthood, long after the latest toy trend has faded.

There’s also a practical side to consider. The relentless influx of toys can lead to clutter and stress for families. Psychologists have found that living in a cluttered environment can actually lower life satisfaction, making homes feel less inviting and more overwhelming [2]. Experience gifts, by contrast, don’t take up space on shelves or floors. They’re inherently non-cluttering, freeing up both physical and mental space for creativity and play [3].

From an environmental perspective, the case for fewer toys is even stronger. The holiday season alone generates an extra million tons of trash in the U.S., much of it from packaging, wrapping paper, and discarded gifts [2]. By choosing experiences over things, we can help reduce waste and model sustainable values for our kids.

Finally, there’s the emotional impact. Overloading children with stuff can actually dampen their creativity and focus. Too many choices can overwhelm kids, making it harder for them to engage deeply with any one activity [2]. Experiences, on the other hand, encourage kids to be present, to explore, and to connect—with themselves, their families, and the world around them.

Inspiring Experience Gift Ideas for Every Age

If you’re ready to shift from “more stuff” to “more memories,” the possibilities are as wide as your child’s imagination. The key is to choose experiences that spark curiosity, nurture passions, and fit your family’s lifestyle. Here are some of our favorite ideas, tailored for different ages and interests.

Local Adventures: There’s something magical about exploring your own community through a child’s eyes. Memberships or day passes to museums, zoos, aquariums, or science centers make fantastic gifts. These outings offer hands-on learning, encourage questions, and often include interactive exhibits that engage both kids and adults. For nature lovers, consider a guided hike, a visit to a botanical garden, or a family day at a local park. These experiences foster a sense of wonder and help kids develop a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.

Creative Classes and Workshops: For kids who love to tinker, create, or perform, classes can be a gateway to new skills and confidence. Think art workshops, music lessons, cooking classes, or STEM camps. Many communities offer short-term sessions or one-off workshops, making it easy to try something new without a huge commitment. These experiences not only build skills but also encourage kids to express themselves and collaborate with others.

At-Home Experiences: Not every experience gift requires leaving the house. Subscription boxes are a brilliant way to bring adventure to your doorstep. From science kits and art projects to cooking challenges and book clubs, these boxes deliver hands-on activities that can be enjoyed solo or as a family. Virtual events—like online escape rooms, interactive storytimes, or live-streamed concerts—can also create memorable moments, especially for families who live far apart or prefer to stay home.

Gifts That Grow With Kids: Some of the best experience gifts are those that keep giving over time. Annual memberships to favorite places, ongoing lessons (like swimming, coding, or martial arts), or season passes to local attractions provide opportunities for kids to deepen their interests and build confidence. These gifts adapt as kids grow, offering new challenges and adventures each year.

For families separated by distance, experience gifts can still be meaningful. Consider sending a gardening kit to nurture together over video calls, or a DIY cooking set for a virtual bake-off. Even a simple tradition—like reading the same book and discussing it during calls—can become a cherished ritual [3].

Making Experience Gifts Personal and Memorable

The magic of an experience gift lies in its ability to feel personal and thoughtful. Customizing the experience to match a child’s unique interests shows that you truly see and value who they are. Start by considering what excites your child—are they fascinated by dinosaurs, obsessed with baking, or eager to learn a new instrument? Tailoring the gift to their passions makes it even more meaningful.

Adding a tangible touch can help bridge the gap between the excitement of unwrapping a present and the anticipation of the experience itself. For example, pair tickets to a planetarium with a star chart, or include a personalized apron with a cooking class. A simple keepsake—like a photo from the day, a journal to record memories, or a small souvenir—can help kids relive the experience and share it with others.

When gifting experiences from afar, creativity goes a long way. If you can’t be there in person, consider arranging a virtual tour, sending a kit for a shared project, or scheduling a video call to enjoy the experience together. For group celebrations, pooling resources for a bigger experience—like a family camping trip or a special outing—can be more impactful than a pile of individual gifts [3][5].

Building family traditions around experience gifts can also make them even more special. Maybe every birthday includes a “choose your own adventure” day, or holidays are marked by a new shared activity. These rituals become part of your family’s story, creating a sense of continuity and belonging that lasts far beyond childhood [2].

It’s also worth noting that experience gifts can be a gentle way to address the issue of too many toys with extended family and friends. Many parents have found success by creating wish lists that include memberships, classes, or contributions to larger experiences, making it easier for loved ones to give gifts that truly matter [5]. Some families even encourage donations to a favorite cause or community project in lieu of more stuff, teaching kids the joy of giving back.

Choosing experience gifts is about more than just reducing clutter—it’s about investing in your child’s curiosity, creativity, and connection with the world. Whether it’s a day at the museum, a new skill learned, or a family tradition started, these gifts create memories that last far longer than any toy. Here’s to giving our kids the gift of wonder, discovery, and togetherness—one experience at a time.

Sources

[1] New Study Finds Young Kids Prefer Toys Over Experience-Based Gifts — https://www.fatherly.com/news/study-young-kids-like-toys

[2] No More Junk! Why Experiences Make the Best Holiday Gifts — https://www.consumerreports.org/money/gift-giving/no-more-junk-why-experiences-make-the-best-holiday-gifts-a5551872742/

[3] Non-Cluttering Non-Toy Gift Ideas For Kids | Alpha Mom — https://alphamom.com/family-fun/family-products-services/kids-no-clutter-non-toy-gift-ideas/

[4] 34 Best Gifts for 10-Year-Olds of 2025 | Reviews by Wirecutter — https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-toys-gifts-for-10-year-olds/

[5] Can I Ask People to Not Buy My Kids Toys? | Twiniversity #1 — https://www.twiniversity.com/not-buy-my-kids-toys/