Gifting Experiences - Great Last-Minute Ideas!

Sometimes well-meaning friends and family contact us around gift-giving holidays expressing that they want to give something to our kids but are not familiar with how particular they are. So they need some help. 

I think many of us have Amazon wish lists for our kids already. Filled with books, toys, and even items that nobody would ever think was a toy, but your kid loves to collect, etc. 

So another option I have adopted - experiences! I set up a Google Doc that I update throughout the year with new options or interests – and this can be a great way to get some learning experiences covered during homeschool sessions.

Depending on the age, interest, and physical abilities of your student - you could add places like:

• your local children’s museum
• science and technology centers
• hands-on sensory and interactive entertainment centers
• natural history museums
• train/railroad museums
• water parks
• aquariums
• local zoos
• animal sanctuaries
• train rides
• snow parks

It doesn’t have to be for only big adventures. Ask for funds to cover:

• visit(s) to local play centers for little ones
• A couple of gymnastics sessions
• A couple of swim lessons
• holiday lighting/tree events
• visit(s) to a trampoline park
• A day of fun at the local pizza+arcade spot
• A movie visit to the theatre that hosts a sensory-friendly showing.

On the document I provide a link to the official website and the cost of a ticket for my daughter. Now it’s just up to the friend or family member to pick what they would like to give.

Jennifer Bullock, Contributing Author

Homeschooling-experienced mom to a tween, non-speaking daughter, Jennifer is also Marketing Outreach Coordinator for The Autism Oasis. With 20+ years experience in marketing, advertising, and social media communications, you will see her occasionally supporting the blog and social media channels with various content related to Autism Oasis.