Why Traditional Gifts are Still the Best

Time moves fast, and technology moves even faster. Just 20 years ago we were still getting used to mobile phones. Texting was weird, video calls were being refined, and the word app was non-existent in the world of mobile phones. 

Nowadays, we have complex Android and iPhones that do pretty much anything for you at the swipe of a button or two.

Gaming is another area of technology that’s excelled wildly. No longer is it a case of seeing Pacman plod across the screen eating a load of dots while being chased by something that resembled a ghost. Now, it’s a totally subversive experience that makes you feel you’re actually in the game opposed to just controlling it.  

Nostalgia Awakens

While all these technologically advanced things may be great at first, the novelty does begin to fade after you’ve opened your third iPad or twentieth Bluetooth speaker. And soon, you begin to realize that actually, traditional gifts are better in many ways.

When I say traditional gift, I’m talking about things like:

• Wooden toys – This includes things like building blocks and train sets. But also things like wooden play sets and ride on trucks. Wooden toys are great as they take a lot of wear and tear and last for ages.   
• Home-made arts and crafts – Old times were hard and there wasn’t anywhere near the amount of money floating around that we’re all accustomed to today. Therefore, a lot of gifts that were given were those that could be made. Hand-sewn socks, home-made candles, and home-cooked edibles were some of the most common gifts back then. And while they may not equate to much in monetary terms, the thought and effort that’s behind it, makes all the difference.   
• Christmas sweater –  A little later down the line came the introduction and rise of the good old Christmas sweater. Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without everyone in one of these. 

But, times have moved on, and unfortunately not all kids of today will be as pleased with a wooden toy as they were 75 years ago. So, why not meet in the middle? Ban the electronics, but maybe upgrade on the wood.

 If you’re stuck on ideas for what to get your little monster, be sure to check out some of these great gift ideas that, unlike your child, will never age:

• PoGo Stick –  It may be a simple device, but give your child one of these things, and you’re not likely to see them all day. Not only will keep your kids entertained for ages, it’s also a good form of exercise for them. The kids excitedly pulled up their kids scrunch socks football and grabbed the football, ready for an afternoon of fun.
• Go Kart – A go kart is great fun for the whole family. And while many of them these days are laden with lights, and motors, and all kinds of modern delights, there are still plenty out there that follow the traditional style of go kart with little more than pedal power to keep you going.  
• Chopper Bike – Another retro style gift that never seems to get old is the trusty Chopper Bike. While these may have had a slight upgrade in the aesthetics over time, they’re still a great classic mode of transport for any carefree youngster.