As a grandparent, aunt, or uncle, you may be struggling with gift ideas for your young family members. Sometimes, the toys on the market seem like such "twaddle" (mindless, unchallenging junk!), and you don't want to simply throw away your money, in order to satisfy an obligation. It's much nicer when you know that your gift is meaningful, that it will be enjoyed and appreciated.
My parents took the magazine subscription approach for a couple of years, and it was really a pleasant experience for the kids. I don't know about you, but I love it when a new magazine arrives, and my kids equally enjoy the experience of thumbing through and looking at pictures, reading articles, and discussing their observations. If you are looking for a great way to boost a particular interest, or to encourage reading skills, this could be just what you are looking for.
There are so many magazines available, that you shouldn't have any trouble finding something suitable. My youngest daughter received High Five from Highlights for two years, while an older child received the actual Highlights Magazine. My youngest son received Thomas and Friends. Another son received Spider. Dig, Muse, Ranger Rick, and National Geographic Kids have also been pleasing choices for the kids. Older children received titles suited to their interests: Polymer Clay, Cooking, Baking. The activities, articles, and photos are great. The kids have loved looking forward to that monthly arrival in the mail, and have dreaded that "final issue" notice.
