The best gift to enhance children’s creativity and imagination may be more about the box than what is in it. It’s an old adage that little kids often end up playing more with the holiday present boxes and wrapping paper than the gifts themselves. And I think that is true for some very important reasons.
Kids are wired to learn
First of all, never forget that all children are naturally curious, they are wired to learn, and that learning anything in and of itself is a rewarding experience. Kids love to learn! And if they are engaged in play of their own doing, there is always a tremendous amount of education going on…and fun.
Gifts that stimulate creativity
Kids of all ages LOVE big boxes; you know, the kind that comes from that new refrigerator or appliance. It allows their creativity to go wild. They can build whatever their hearts desire, using their own imagination. Kids will make up games and scenarios that they play out over and over again. It’s the same reason kids love a box of grandma’s old clothes to play dress-up games. The key is allowing kids the freedom to pursue their own interests in their own way and in their own time.
Let kids take the lead
Even better, sit on the floor with your children and follow their lead. Allow them to set the rules of the game they are playing and to set the pace. It can be hard for adults to not get their hands and ideas in there and “do it right”. Resist the urge to take control and see the game through their eyes. You can learn a lot about your kids by engaging in their play.
Boxes are The gift that keeps on giving
So, you don’t need to spend a wad of dough this holiday season to make your kids happy. Give them toys that allow them to use their imaginations and creativity. The best toys are the ones where there are no prescribed directions or rules so that kids can make their own creations. Give them the gift that keeps on giving: some good old boxes.
The best gift for your family just might be in a box and well. No holiday gathering is complete without our Dinner Dialogue cards. Get a box today and start learning things about your family that you never knew.
