11th • CHRISTMAS SHOPPING SPREE

Teaching children the joy of giving is one of the most meaningful aspects of the holiday season. A special shopping trip where kids can independently select and purchase gifts for loved ones helps develop thoughtfulness, budgeting skills, and the understanding that meaningful presents don't require large price tags. This cherished tradition transforms a simple shopping expedition into a lesson about generosity, financial literacy, and the personal touch that makes gifts special. The two main ways you can foster this is by setting spending limits and shopping at thrift shops or outlet stores.

  1. SECRET SANTA DETECTIVE AGENCY: Transform the shopping trip into a spy mission where kids become "gift detectives." Create special dossiers for each family member with their favorite colors, hobbies, and interests. Kids wear detective badges and use small notepads to jot down gift ideas as they browse. Set up a "detective briefing" before entering the store where they review their mission parameters (budget and gift recipients).

  2. HOLIDAY SHOPPING GAME SHOW: Turn shopping into a friendly competition where kids earn points for finding gifts that match specific criteria: "Something blue for Mom," "Something Dad can use in the garden," or "Something cozy for Grandma." Announce "lightning round challenges" where kids have 3 minutes to find a gift under $3. Make it extra fun by having kids explain their choices as if they were game show contestants.

  3. GIFT JOURNEY PASSPORT: Create small "shopping passports" where kids collect stamps or stickers for completing different shopping milestones: making a list, calculating their budget, finding gifts within budget, making thoughtful choices, etc. Include a "customs declaration" where they write why they chose each gift. Once their passport is full, they earn a special shopper's certificate.

  4. RANDOM ACTS OF GIVING ADVENTURE: Besides shopping for family, each child gets a small additional budget ($2-3) to buy something for a complete stranger. They could choose a small toy for a local toy drive, pet supplies for an animal shelter, or toiletries for a homeless shelter. This teaches children to think beyond their immediate circle and consider community needs.

  5. SHOP THE HOUSE: Have each child shop through their own belongings to find potential gifts such as outgrown toys, books, games, sports items, etc. You can also lead them on a gift hunt through other areas of the house to identify additional potential gifts. Assemble your finds all in one area and help the kids make a Christmas Market sign. They can play store and sort the items into adult vs. child gifts, boy vs. girl gifts, gifts by age, etc. Then they can each take turns picking one item for the people on their list. If your kids are older, hand out monopoly money and hold an auction where they bid against each other for the items.

    Don’t forget to check out the “Wrapping Party” post to get the gifts ready for giving.

Mary Mayxmas activity ideas