This is definitely not an invitation to shower children with “stuff.” The gifts I am suggesting are long lasting and unique to you and the children you care about. They don’t wear out, become out-of-date, or get buried among all the other “stuff” that children have.

I invite you to make a list of what gifts you could give that fit those descriptions. Here are some ideas. May you enjoy making your own list and may you enjoy giving your very special gifts.

1. Let them know who you are – your view of the world, how you see yourself and others, what you value in life, and how you became the person you are today.

2. Share stories about times when they were younger or even before they were born.

3. Teach them a skill such as singing, sewing, building, or playing a sport.

4. Encourage them as you see their special interests and talents blossom – celebrating both what they can do now and what they will be able to do with more experience and practice.

5. Enjoy them and make sure they know how much they mean to you, not because of what they can do but just because they are who they are – wonderful children who are important to you.

6. Invite them to do things they don’t usually get to do – make cookies, repair a broken household item, make a painting, go to a museum, go to a sporting event, etc.

7. Laugh with them – lots and lots of laughter – and remind them often of all the past times you laughed together.

 (See “Why Grandparents Are Important” for more about grandparents.)