Benefits of Gifting Experiences

11.24.2025
Benefits of Gifting Experiences

Often when we think of holiday gift giving, we imaging the big gift under the tree, the perfect stocking-stuffer, or the new favorite toy. These gifts will always be an important part of the holidays for many families. But, there can also be great benefits in gifting experiences. As a child, some of my favorite gifts were lunches with my grandma and gift cards to the local bookstore. These gifts added a bit of extra excitement to the holidays when I got to choose the restaurant or browse the shelves and find the books that spoke to me and my interests at the time.

Experiences not only help kids learn a variety of new information, hands-on skills, and social-emotional skills. They also form new core memories that can last a life time. Tickets to a museum, exhibit, or zoo can help spark creativity and foster new interests in children. Tickets to a concert or sporting event can inspire a passion to learn a new sport, instrument, or skill. Entry to an indoor playground or swim lessons can build motor and social skills. These are foundational to a child’s development. Even something as simple as a gift card to a favorite dessert spot or restaurant can foster connection and shared joy with loved ones.

Gifting Experience Ideas with Benefits for Kids

Not only do kids get to experiences the benefits of gifting experiences, the local businesses you purchase from them benefit too. Check out some other gift recommendations with fine motor benefits here.