Sugar Plum Z will be turning two at the end of the month and right after that we will be celebrating Christmas. Over the last few months, I’ve been thinking about gifts that keep on giving. Sure toys are fun but when I check the toy box, I’m reminded of how temporary they are. Sugar Plum Z and Big Z still have unopened toys from last Christmas and little Z’s birthday. Hmmmmm, how bad is it if we rewrap and put them back under the tree? Not that bad right?

Back to my point, what gifts can we get Sugar Plum Z for her birthday and then again for Christmas that will keep giving through the year or for years to come. Here’s my Toddler Gift Guide list: 

Memberships 

One of our favorite places to visit is the Zoo. The animals are fun to get to know, the childrens amusement park and the various activities the Zoo puts on makes this a gift that keeps on giving. Our membership list includes: 

• Zoo
• Museum 
• Botanical Garden
• Book Clubs 

Lessons 

On our to do list is swimming lessons. Every child should learn how to swim said the adult who is petrified of deep water. Not one cruise for me. I guess family swimming lessons are in order. Lessons to consider: 

• Swimming 
• Dance
• Gymnastics 
• Music 

Classes 

Sugar Plum Z loves to doodle and paint. In my eyes she is an amazing artist, so classes are in her future. Classes: 

• Art
• Cooking 
• Photography 

Subscriptions 

Box subscriptions are all the rave. You kind find a box for everyone and toddlers are no exception. I suppose some of these boxes will include toys but I’ll make an exception for them. 

• Potstickers Club 
• Bluum
• Gift Lit 
• Citrus Lane
• Little Passport
• Kiwi Crate

Season Passes or Tickets 

• Amusement Parks 
• Plays
• Movie passes 

All About Money 

Most babies are born into a bank account. If you haven’t started one yet, now is a good time to start with a piggy bank and graduate up to a family trip to the bank to open an account. I like the conventional route but an online account is also great option. 

Teach lessons about money, saving and spending at every opportunity. Explain the checkout transaction at the grocery store. They are never too young. 

Gifts of savings bonds, CDs and education fund deposits are high on this list as well. 

DIY It

There are so many gifts you can create at home that will keep on giving. Just check out Pinterest. I have a few on my list including scrapbooking. This is one you can start and then continue on with your child throughout the year. 

Don’t forget to keep ample supplies on hand for every day fun. Sugar Plum will soon be the proud owner of an easel! 

I’ll be sharing this post with everyone that asks “What does Z want for her birthday or Christmas?” Hey, I’d rather get gifts we will use for more than a few days and add to her growing interest. I’m not a begger but I am choosy. 

What no toy gift ideas can you add to the list?