Inexpensive Presents to Show Your Kids You Care

It's one week until Christmas, and by now every celebrating parent is in a panic, hoping what's under the tree will meet up to the imaginations of wistful children everywhere.   No doubt Santa's toys and games are sure to delight, but what about a little homemade something from the heart to remind your kids all year long of your deep love and affection?  Here are four simple presents that are easy to make and are sure to delight.

• Little Photo Album.  No need to go crazy here, just pick a handful of favorite photos of you and your child for simple display in a keepsake album.  Nostalgic kids won't mind if you need to go back a few years to fill your book, and your little gift will be a nice reminder of the sweet times you've shared together.
  
• Blessing Book.  KOLO makes a tiny 3x3 book perfect for this purpose, but really any little journal with ruled pages will do.  On each page, list one wish for your child in the new year or one declaration of affirmation or love.  An example of the first would be, "May you be delighted by new friends this year who make you laugh and love to play."  An example of the second would be, "You are dear to my heart.  Your playful spirit fills our house with joy."   Pre-readers will enjoy having this little book as a bedtime ritual.  Older kids will like this tiny, secret reminder that they are deeply cherished.
  
• Homemade Coupons.  Take a stack of 3x5 cards and print out one connecting activity or privilege per card.  Kids can redeem the coupon per the parameters you set up ("may only be redeemed before bedtime"  or "must be redeemed in the month of January") and you can focus on those activities that will bring both of you the most happiness and connection.  Possibilities might include:  "Good for one pillow fight before bedtime" or "Good for one bubble bath while Mom reads you a story".  Tie up your cards with a bow and chocolate bar.  This little heartfelt present will help you connect with your kids all year long.
  
• The Story of Us.  Take a sheet of white paper, and write a short story about a fantastic adventure featuring you and your child.  No Pulitzer prize winning literary skills required--just make sure there's a beginning, middle and end with your child as the hero who solves a simple problem.  Decorate your story with stickers, stick figures or hearts--any little scribble to make your child smile.  Roll up your story, scroll style, and secure it with a bow.  Your kids will love your willingness to be creative on their behalf and this is one story that will be cherished for a long time to come.

I hope this inspires you to leave a personal treasure under the tree this Christmas for your little ones.  I'm hoping I can get at least one of these ideas put together and finished before Santa comes knocking on Christmas Eve night!