Gifts for Grandchildren

This post has nothing to do with Senior living on the coast but I thought it has a few good ideas. It is from the Mobile Press Register and was in this week's paper.
Gifts for the grandkids: 15 things to consider when choosing gifts for your children's children
Monday, June 01, 2009
By MIKE BRANTLEY
Staff Reporter
Selecting and then giving gifts to beloved grandchildren are among the greatest of holiday season joys for grandparents. You don't have to give big or expensive presents. The best pleasure in both giving and receiving involves presents that are thoughtful and given with love.
Indeed, love and affection top the list of the most precious and appreciated gifts.
Some gifts must be bought. Others require only time and attention.
Here are some tips, courtesy of The Legacy Project (www.legacyproject.org) and the Oregon State University Extension Service:
Check with your grandchildren's parents about the suitability of any gift you are considering. Don't go against the wishes of the parents.
Never buy a big gift or one that will require special care or arrangements — such as a pet or a trip — without first consulting parents.
Thoughtful selections let grandchildren know you are aware of their special interests and needs.
Select age-appropriate gifts. Finding out what types of toys, books, videos, computer software or games are best for your grandchild's age is often as simple as looking for guidance on the packaging.
Children today have so many toys, many of which quickly become discarded or broken. When purchasing toys, consider those that will gave the greatest play value over the longest time.
Help your grandchild start a collection and then add to it over time. It can be cards (baseball to dinosaur), rocks, seashells, stamps, coins, comic books, miniatures or figurines. Develop a theme for your gifts, such as outdoor items or rainy-day activities.
Try to break the toy stereotypes. Don't just give girls dolls and boys trucks. Perhaps your granddaughter will appreciate a train set?
Small, inexpensive gifts can be as meaningful as expensive gifts. Watch for sales and buy in advance so you'll have a ready supply of small gifts when needed. Too many gifts can be overwhelming for children. Don't try to buy their affection.
Use your imagination for the presentation. Wrap presents in the Sunday comics or decorate a box of cookies with stickers.
Make a photo album of their parent (your child) for each grandchild.
Money is always welcome, even in small amounts. You just don't want it to be the only gift you give, or use it as a way to "buy" your grandchildren.
Something handmade makes a special gift now and can become a treasured keepsake over the years. You might make your grandchild a quilt, a special blanket, a sweater or scarf, a stuffed doll or bear, or even a hand-carved paperweight.
Give a handmade gift certificate of an activity you and your grandchild can do together. A hobby you'll share, a game you will play together, a fishing trip or a visit to a children's museum are all possibilities.