6 Great Gift Ideas for Families

If you have families on your shopping list this holiday season, one way to simplify gift giving is to buy one gift for the whole gang as opposed to individual gifts for each member. Here are some fun gift ideas for families that can make everyone happy (including you and your holiday budget).

An Experience

This could include a season pass to a local amusement park; tickets to a movie; tickets to a play or sporting event; a pass to state parks/camping grounds; or a gift certificate to a bowling alley.

A Membership

Maybe there’s a local zoo, aquarium, art gallery or museum close by. Buying the gift of a yearlong membership is a great way to make shopping easy for you and provide an opportunity for quality family time for the recipients.

Some Indoor Fun

Depending on your budget, this could include anything from a collection of board games to a Netflix subscription to a gaming system, like a Wii U, Xbox or PlayStation. A book series is another nice option if you have a family of readers.

Some Outdoor Fun

Think lawn games like lawn darts, croquet and badminton. For cold weather climates, a snowman making kit (or supplies) is a unique idea. If you have a family of campers, think about gifting a new tent or other supplies the whole family could enjoy.

Something to Nosh On

Never underestimate the power of delicious goodies. You can go beyond a plate of cookies (though that’s not a bad idea) to include anything from frozen cookie dough to unusual or exotic foods. Or you could give a fun new appliance, like a sno-cone maker, a cotton candy machine, a popcorn popper or a Mickey Mouse-shaped waffle iron.

Your Time

For busy families, this may be one of the most valued gifts you could imagine. You might offer babysitting “coupons” (so weary parents can have a date night and you can entertain the kids); a “date” afternoon with each child (perfect if you’re vying for the title “Aunt of the Year”); or simply offer to make a meal or baked goods and deliver them once a month.