***We teamed up with Nordstrom and ShopStyle on this sponsored post. We couldn’t be happier to be able to work with one of our favorite stores!***
As a kid, there were a few years my dad lost his job around the holiday season. At the time, I didn’t really even know what was going on, but looking back, I now see. There were a lot of homemade gifts those years. My sweet parents did everything they could to teach us the true meaning of Christmas in those years, and in the years of abundance. No matter what Christmas looks like for you, it’s always a wonderful idea to teach kids to appreciate their gifts and recognize the importance of giving!
Most of us are purchasing gifts this year and it’s the perfect time to teach appreciation and gratitude.
This year, I teamed up with Nordstrom to feature some of the coolest toys out there.
Did you know Nordstrom has a toy shop? Not only do they have some recognized brands like Lego and Barbie, they also carry some super unique toys and books! Many were new to me and I’m excited to have discovered them. I’ve often turned to Nordstrom for up to date fashion and gifts, and now, I’m going to them for toys!
Nordstrom has the most impeccable customer service. I’ve had very few problems EVER ordering, but if there’s ever a sizing issue or something of the sort, they have a free returns policy that is the best out there by far. They REALLY look out for their customers and it shows! PLUS you get FREE shipping on anything AND Free returns as mentioned. Need something even quicker? You can do curbside pick up as well.
Have you heard of The Nordy Club? It’s free to join HERE.
Each time you make purchases, you accumulated points. You can use those points to turn into Nordstrom Notes to spend on anything! Plus you get exclusive access to sales, events and offers! Definitely worth joining!
Look at all the treasures we found in the Nordstrom Holiday Shop!
- Allow your kids to pick out their own gifts for their family members and to donate.
Allowing your kids to take ownership of the gift giving is always a good idea. They can really think about what that recipient would really love, choose intentionally, and be engaged in the process. Our family also loves to pick a family who needs some extra help during the holidays. My kids absolutely LOVE to choose those gifts to donate. I see their eyes light up as they choose that perfect Barbie or book for someone. They love being involved!When my older daughter saw this Lego set, she KNEW it was perfect for her twin. She knew her twin was working on collecting the whole “town” and it was important to her to complete the set. I loved that she saw that!
2. Get your kids in on the wrapping.
This may seem simple, and it is, but think how many times mom and dad stay up into the wee hours of the morning Christmas eve wrapping EVERYTHING. Put those kiddos to work wrapping gifts! Even if the cut lines are crooked and jagged, they love being a part of things and seeing the fruit of their labors. Watching someone rip into a present and seeing their reaction is truly a source of happiness!
3. Teach the proper way to receive a gift and express appreciation.
Truth bomb. I’m a super awkward gift recipient. I never know what to say or how to react. I HATE the pressure. I’ve been working to teach my kids better. Teach them how to respond to show true appreciation. Teach them what to do if it’s an item they already own. The learning moments are plentiful and it’s a great time to teach how to express that gratitude.
4. Sit down and write “old school” thank you notes.
I feel like this is such a lost art. I make my kids sit down and write REAL, handwritten thank you notes. Sometimes it’s meant with a few grumbles, but expressing that specific appreciation helps build a foundation of a “gratitude attitude.”
5. Play with the new toys WITH your kids
I’ve found, especially with my younger kids, that they appreciate the things they have more when they see YOU treating them with respect. Quick story to illustrate my point. My son had a huge issue with leaving his toys in disarray. Often, things would get unintentionally broken or lost because of his lack of care. I found that the best way to teach him was to model the behavior. We’d play with his toys together, and then I’d immediately help him clean up and put his toys away in an organized way. It honestly worked. He began to take better care of his toys and in turn, value them more. Plus, play time with mom or dad is ALWAYS fun and needed.
(Sidenote: I’m obsessed with this sweater and jeans I’m wearing. Also courtesy of Nordstrom. These jeans tuck everything in perfectly! Every woman needs a pair.)
There you have it. 5 easy ways to help kids appreciate Christmas giving and receiving!
Do you think this might help in your family?
Now, here are a few tried and true gift ideas in case you’re in the market.
- Lego Friends sets
This classic gift never lets us down. It’s the one thing almost ALL my 6 kids (except the little one, he just tried to eat them!) enjoy doing together. Nordstrom has a great selection HERE. - This super detective set
My 6 year old LOVES play pretending and creating imaginary play with this interactive set! - This HUGE coloring page
These coloring pages are gigantic with so much detail! Perfect for a budding artist or artists! They have some more varieties HERE. - This Barbie set.
My 4 year old is obsessed with this. SPA Barbie. How bougie is that? You can even make little play dough face masks! - My 1 year olds FAVORITE toy.
If you have a ltitle one, GET THEM THIS. This thing drives around the room and I have the most HILARIOUS videos of him chasing it around and around. - This little bead set.
Super cute and the perfect stocking stuffer! - This book
Is it really Christmas if you don’t gift at least one book? I have a love of Paris, so this book is a new favorite. The main character is darling!
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