Alternative Gift Ideas for Grandchildren
Charitable Presents That Can Make a Difference
Jun 29, 2009
It’s easy to forget in times of economic crisis that there is always someone else who is worse off. Buying presents for grandchildren can be quite a challenging task especially when they seem to have it all anyway. Thinking about giving in an alternative way will bring benefits to those who have less. It will also educate the future generation and build relationships between grandparents and their grandchildren.
Sponsoring a Child
Sponsoring a child from a third world country not only helps one individual, it benefits their whole community. For a small monthly sum, grandparents can sponsor a child from a country of their choice. Together with their grandchildren grandparents can begin to develop a relationship which may last a lifetime. Communication between the sponsor, grandchild and the sponsored child can take place on a regular basis and can include the exchange of pictures and photographs.
Sponsoring organisations provide regular updates on how the sponsor has contributed to the development of the local community. This type of gift could last until the child becomes an adult and grandparents and many sponsors go on to visit the child and their community. This not only raises awareness of children about each others different backgrounds and cultures but can also build lasting relationships. Organisations which offer sponsorship include Plan International and Action Aid.
Adopt an Animal
There are many issues regarding the well being of animals and many organisations now offer the opportunity to adopt an animal for a certain period of time. This gift could be related to the favourite animal of the grandchildren or maybe an endangered or wild animal like the orang-utans in Borneo. Some wildlife trusts are now promoting this to raise money for the protection of some animals like the tiny dormouse.
If this gift is organised through a local organisation like a zoo or animal shelter then the child can receive photographs, entry tickets, newsletters and general information about the animal they have adopted. This allows children to learn about the animal kingdom, our environment and become personally involved. Charities which offer such schemes include Born Free organisation. WWF and Adopt Wildlife.
Other Ethical Gift Options
Alternatively, a gift could be a donation to a charity of choice depending on the grandparents and their families preference. Involving the grandchild in choosing a charity can help to raise awareness about the needs of others and develop a sense of compassion and empathy for those less well off. Children often develop a strong sense of responsibility for things they can influence if only by a small amount. Charitable organisations include Make a Wish Foundation and the World Vision Programme.
Birthdays are a time for celebration and a time for giving but involving grandchildren in something outside their normal family life can broaden relationships with them and help someone else in return.
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