Healthy Gifts for Children and Teens

What to give—and not give—to encourage healthful habits

They light up, make noise, have funny names like Xbox and iPod, and are likely to be at the top of your child’s holiday gift list. But the hottest video game and music systems aren’t the only game in town.

“For your child’s sake, add creativity to her holiday,” says pediatrician Anne Helwig, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. “A variety of gifts that encourage her to play outside, foster her learning and help her develop strong bonds with friends and family is important.”

That doesn’t mean you have to break the bank, either. Here are some ideas—many cheaper than a video game—sure to deliver smiles long after the holidays end.

Gifts of learning (and fun)

“Children learn from everything they touch, and their play is preparation for life. That’s why toys should be hands-on, not hand-held.”
— Robin Henschel, educational toy store owner, West Reading

Share a few words—Books are a classic gift for all ages—A-Z Mysteries or the Magic Tree House series (ages 4-8), the Hardy Boys or Nancy Drew (ages 8-12), and of course, Harry Potter (age 9 and up). If your child wants real-life stories, don’t forget this old favorite: an encyclopedia.

Get into the game—Educational toy stores carry a variety of games that enhance math skills, build vocabulary and test logic. Jigsaw puzzles, building blocks of all sizes, and old favorites like jacks or marbles stimulate individual or group play.

Gifts of fitness

“When your child exercises, he learns skills to stay fit for life.”
— Kadi Tarlecky, senior program director, Allentown YMCA and YWCA

Keep him active—A new baseball, football, basketball or soccer ball is an affordable way (often under $20) to ensure hours of play when the weather gets warmer. A large, bouncing exercise ball can help your child expend excess energy, too. And when it’s cold out, try a gift certificate to a local gym with year-round sports leagues, gymnastics or swim lessons.

Keep him safe—Helmets and elbow and knee pads are helpful if your child can’t get enough of his bicycle, skateboard or rollerblades.

Accessorize—Whether useful (a gym bag) or just plain fun (a bicycle horn), accessories are a low-cost way to encourage outdoor activity.

Gifts of time

“The true value of gifts lies not in material possessions, but in ways for you and your children to spend quality time together.”
— Kenneth Mead, program director, Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network Adolescent Transitions

Go on trips—Does your child like to color? Take her to Easton’s Crayola Factory. Does she like to ride a bike? Get her tickets to the Lehigh County Velodrome. Does she like nature? Promise to take her to Emmaus’ Wildlands Conservancy when the weather breaks.

Engage in activities—“My favorite gift was going fishing with my father,” Mead says. You can use the holidays to plan a parent-child campout, ski outing or day trip to a fun destination. (Time together is a great gift from grandparents, too!)

Want to Know More? For tips on how to choose safe toys for your child, call 610-402-CARE or click here.

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