As the holiday season approaches, parents often find themselves inundated with well-meaning relatives and friends eager to shower their children with gifts. While the gesture is appreciated, my home is already overflowing with toys—many of which barely see the light of day. The truth is, every now and then, I have to quietly sift through the mountain of toys and donate or pass along what we no longer need. I’m incredibly grateful for the generosity of family and friends, but there are certain presents that can create more chaos than joy in our lives. Here’s a list of gifts you might want to reconsider before putting them under the tree.
- Anything Sticky or Gooey
You know that neon goo that makes fart sounds? Yeah, let’s skip that. It’s a recipe for disaster—one spill on the couch, and you’re in for a world of hurt. And if it gets stuck in hair? Forget about it! - Loud Toys That Drive Parents Crazy
While kids love toys that light up and squeak, some are just too much. Toys that don’t have volume control can turn an otherwise peaceful evening into a cacophony of sound, especially when they start talking at 3 a.m. Trust me, that singing dinosaur? Not so cute when it startles you awake. - Clothing for Kids with Strong Opinions
When they’re little, kids don’t care about what they wear. But as they grow, their preferences can change overnight. A cute shirt might not go over well with an 8-year-old who now has a favorite superhero that’s not Power Rangers anymore. - Similar Gifts for Siblings
If you’re considering getting my kids similar toys, please make them identical. It’s not just about the toys; it’s about the inevitable arguments over who gets what color or which one is better. It’s a never-ending cycle of sibling rivalry. - Glitter
Glitter is the gift that keeps on giving… in terms of cleanup! It may seem harmless in a craft kit, but once it’s out, it’s nearly impossible to get rid of. A speck here and there can lead to hours of cleaning; it’s a disaster waiting to happen. - Toys That Require Additional Accessories
Gifts that are part of a larger set can lead to disappointment if my kids don’t already own the other pieces. We once received a toy hamster that needed endless tunnels and wheels. My kids loved it for a month, but then it became just another thing to trip over in the living room. - Complex Craft or Science Kits
While I love the idea of educational gifts, some craft kits come with so many instructions and extra materials that it feels like a second job. If it requires me to buy uncommon items just to get started, it’s a hard pass. - Age-Inappropriate Toys
Though my older son loves a challenge, some toys are just too advanced for him. Frustration from toys meant for kids twice his age leads to tears rather than fun.
As much as I appreciate the thought behind every gift, it’s important to consider how each item will fit into our daily lives. Gifts that are simple, small, and quiet are often the most enjoyable. If you’re unsure, think about opting for something practical or engaging—something that won’t require a lot of maintenance or cleanup. For more insights on parenting and home life, check out this article or explore expert advice at Make A Mom.
Summary: This holiday season, consider avoiding gifts that may create more chaos than joy for kids and their parents. From sticky toys to loud gadgets, some gifts can lead to frustration and endless cleanup. Simple, age-appropriate, and non-noisy gifts can make the holiday experience much more enjoyable for everyone involved.