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Don’t Gift My Kids More Toys—Consider This Instead
I recently received a call from a family member inquiring about my kids’ current toy preferences. After a moment of silence, I finally replied, “They don’t really play with toys.” Inside, I was panicking—please, no more toys! My living room resembles a scene from a toy hoarder’s nightmare, and the thought of squeezing in another item makes me want to scream.
The relative seemed taken aback and a bit frustrated that I couldn’t provide toy suggestions. Do my kids enjoy toys? Sure, for a fleeting moment. But actual playtime? Not so much. We have a few beloved items like Legos, dress-up costumes, and toy cars, but they mostly prefer screen time, jumping on the trampoline, or playing outside with friends. At ages 10, 8, and 5, they rarely venture into their toy-filled rooms.
So, I’m begging you—please don’t buy my kids more toys! I spend hours sorting through toy boxes, donating what they no longer use, and they don’t miss those toys at all. They might grumble when I remove something, but I’ve never heard them say, “I miss that pink squishy ball I got from Grandma back in 2010.”
It seems many from previous generations believe toys are essential for children, but let’s be real—they’re not. It’s as necessary as me needing a trip to the grocery store with three kids on a Saturday: not needed at all.
I think back to when my mom held onto our childhood toys in hopes of passing them down. Nostalgic? Occasionally, especially when I see a Buzzfeed article featuring toys from the ’90s. But do I wish I still owned them? Not particularly.
I often worry that my kids will be upset with me for donating that gigantic truck they begged for while I was shopping for bras at T.J. Maxx. My youngest talked about it for a week, so, of course, I bought it and saved it for Christmas. He unwrapped it, showed some excitement, and now that truck just collects dust while I try to fit it into an already overflowing toy box.
When they declare they’re bored, I suggest they dive into those forgotten toys, only to be met with blank stares. “Go play with your tow truck!” I say, only to be reminded that they’ve moved on. “You know, the one from Santa?” Nothing. “The one with the crane?” Finally, a flicker of recognition, followed by, “No, I don’t like that truck anymore.” Kids can be baffling, but honestly, they’re just reflecting what we adults have taught them—that accumulating toys is the goal. I’m tired of perpetuating this myth, and I’m also fed up with my home resembling a toy graveyard.
So, please, spare my kids another toy. Regardless of how amazing you think it is, they won’t remember it fondly. Instead, consider this advice: spend quality time with them. Take them out for ice cream, visit the zoo, or play at the local park. These experiences will mean far more to them than any toy ever could.
If you’re set on giving a tangible gift, consider a beloved book from your childhood, and write a little note inside. Then read it to them together after they unwrap it. Books are a gift that never goes out of style.
Encourage them to explore their interests by gifting experiences, whether it’s a trip to the zoo or music lessons. Bonus points if you join them on those adventures! If you can’t make it, I’ll remind them who gifted them that karate class, and they’ll appreciate your thoughtfulness.
In conclusion, none of us need more stuff. There are those in need, yes, but my kids are not among them. I strive to teach them gratitude for what they have, but that’s difficult when they’re spoiled with toys at every turn. So please, stop showering my kids with the latest gadgets, thinking it’ll forge a connection. It won’t.
I assure you, building memories through shared experiences will create the bonds you’re looking for. Let’s avoid cluttering my space with forgotten toys, and instead cherish moments spent together.
For more on the journey of parenthood, check out our other blog posts, like this one on terms and conditions. If you’re interested in at-home insemination, Make A Mom is an authority on the topic, and Healthline provides excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
In a world filled with toys, it’s essential to prioritize experiences over material gifts for children. Spending quality time together—whether through outings, classes, or shared activities—creates lasting memories and strengthens connections. Instead of adding to the clutter, consider giving books or experiences that foster growth and joy.