I really don’t want to just give my grandchild cash or a gift card
I read this comment in a grandparenting group lately and boy did it resonate.
It’s so heartbreaking when kids hit the age when they don’t want toys or even gifts that you pick out anymore.
Instead, the parents (sheepishly) share with you that they just want cash or a gift card this year.
My oldest is on the cusp of this and I’m trying to enjoy the ‘might still play with a toy or love a book I pick out’ stage.
On the other hand, I get it, because I LOVE receiving a gift card.
While cash gifts and gift cards mean a lot less fun for us as gift givers (especially those of us who are obsessed with kid books), there are still ways to make cash or gift card gifts meaningful and fun for you and your grandchildren.
Here is one way – and stick with me because I have some tips for how to do this in a way that maximizes the connection value of your ink and postage costs.
Write a fancy and meaningful note to go with the money.
I mean really dress up the letter. Make it scream this is special.
Think gold pens, heart stickers or cover it with pictures of you together (even ones that are a few years old.
Just make it stand out – whether they are 8 or 18, they are going to spend time reading this masterpiece of a letter.
Now let me back up for a minute because it does not have to be a literary masterpiece.
The actual letter can be bullet points, sign it with your love, tuck in the money, lick the stamp and post it.
I don’t want you to wait until you write the perfect note. It’s more important to tell them these things now – than to craft the perfect letter.
Try finishing these sentences:
- I’ve noticed you….
- I love how you….
- I’m so impressed with how you…..
- I loved the time we..
- When I first met you I remember feeling/thinking…..
- I hope you know much I….
- You are very like your mom/dad/uncle/grandpa in this way….
Maybe they are a kind person, a thoughtful sibling, working hard at school or excelling at a particular sport.
Be the GRAND cheerleader and encourager in their life.
The truth is, long-term, the money part of the gift doesn’t matter.
Research tells us it’s the loving sentiments you share with them that makes the most difference when it comes to nurturing strong and close relationships with your grandchildren.
Hope this helps you feel better – or at least a little more excited about giving cash or gift card. For the record, I’m taking my own advice and writing my son a letter this year on his upcoming birthday titled 8 things mummy loves about you the most right now.
Please do let me know if you get this letter off in the post. I love hearing from all of you, especially when you use the ideas and take connection action!
Happy Connecting (and letter writing!)
Kerry