I’m almost in shock that the kids are back in school and we’re already taking about the holidays. While Christmas is — thankfully-– still a few months off, it’s not too early to start planning for an expense that seems to get bigger and bigger every year. I’m talking about Christmas gifts and presents for friends and family.
Every year I try to stick to a budget and every year I go over. I’m a giver … what can I say? To cut back on my spending for the 2013 holiday season I have a great plan for homemade gift for the adults. I don’t want to spill the beans just yet, but I have a DIY post in the works with all of the details. Giving homemade gifts to kids usually doesn’t go over too well — or at least in my family — so I’m always on the lookout for good deals in the months leading up to the holiday. As the children in my extended family are getting older, they are getting harder and harder to shop for. I know I could probably go out and buy the latest video game, but I’d rather purchase educational toys that stimulate the mind (I’ve TOTALLY become THAT parent!).
The gifts that I’d like to give are puzzles and games that can be played without the use of TV or the internet. I spend most of my day online and I’d prefer if my niece and cousins had options to play away from the computer. One of the places I’ve have found affordable gifts like this is from ltdcommodities.com. LTD Commodities has a nice selection of games, puzzles, cards and accessories that can be played at home or when traveling.
One of my favorite inexpensive gift ideas are the Gift Card Money Maze Puzzles, which allow you to put either a gift card or cash into the “bank” and then the recipients need to work the puzzles to unlock their rewards. At only $5.95 for 2 puzzles, they’re a great deal!
I’m sure most people would put cash or gift cards in these, but a better idea would be to put tickets to the museum, zoo, or even a baseball game — there really are a ton of possibilities!
I still have time to narrow down my selections, but I know I’m going to buy early so I can get the best deals on my holiday gifts.
Do you buy educational toys for the kids in your family?
