Stumped about what to buy your parents for Christmas? You are not alone, many children, (especially adult children who no longer live with their parents) find it difficult to chose the perfect Christmas gift for mom and dad. This article offers some great ideas that involve technology, an outing and personalized gifts.
Technology Gifts for Older Parents
Nowadays, parents are quite tech-savvy. Although they may not aware of what's new on the market, they tend to embrace technology. Think carefully about what will be useful or entertaining. There are a growing number of seniors using computers and iPods. Great tech gifts for mom and dad include:
- G.P.S. device
- Wii fit game
- netbook or iPad (with a screen that zooms)
- digital camera
- cell phone
- digital picture frame
- iPod (Nano 6th generation is great for exercising)
- e-book reader
- upgrade to high-speed internet
Children who buy their parents new technological devices need to be careful in their selection. Make sure the keys and buttons are large enough and user-friendly. Make sure you don't deliver the gift and run. Have parents open the package and be sure they are comfortable using the new gift. A Wii fit game isn't gong to be fun if they never take it out of the box.
Unique Christmas Gifts for Parents – Experience Gift Ideas for a Day Out
For parents who tend to buy themselves all the latest gadgets, try giving them a day to remember. There are companies, such as Trythat.ca who can arrange for an experience voucher for a wide variety of experiences from a helicopter flight to a day with a professional photographer at the Toronto Zoo. Alternatively, children can plan a special experience themselves. Experience gift ideas include:
- cooking classes
- white water rafting
- segway rental or tour
- wine tour
- whale watching
- in-home personal chef for a party of four
- couples day at the spa
- helicopter ride
- hot air balloon ride
- sky diving
- bed and breakfast weekend
- dinner in a skyscraper
Experience gifts don't have to cost a lot of money. Children can plan a day with their parents going to a local festival, sharing an old fashioned picnic or enjoying a school music event. Parents will appreciate that you wanted to spend a day or evening with them (especially for children who are usually busy).
Personal Gifts for Older Moms and Dads
It may be cliche, however, it really is "the thought that counts." Most parents prefer a personal gift over a generic present that could have been given to a neighbor or a co-worker. Using family photos is a great way to give a personal gift. Many gifts can be created on a home computer and then ordered online from a company like Kodak or Walmart. Personal gifts for parents include:
- annual calender with family photo
- perpetual calendar with extended family birthdays filled in
- digital frame filled with pictures of the extended family throughout the year
- family tree
- hand-made art or needlework
- basket of favorite foods and treats
- novelty items with family photo (mugs, blankets, albums)
Personal gifts may or may not cost a great deal of money, but most require some time and planning. That is exactly why parents appreciate personal gifts. The addition of a hand-made gift card with a personal message of love and appreciation is the perfect way to top off a personal gift.
Shopping for parents at Christmas can be a challenge. Technology, a special day out or a personal gift all make great gifts for parents. Plan ahead and give a gift that will make them feel special.
For ideas on saving money at Christmas read: Ways to Save Money on Kid's Christmas Gifts and Things to Do Over the Christmas Holidays.
Linda Wongkee - Linda is an online and print author. She writes about travel and education, her two passions!!
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