The following is from contributing writer Sarah of Frugal Fun for Boys
It’s almost summer – the “season of birthdays” in our family! Everyone in our immediate family (as well as most of our extended family) has a birthday between May and October. It seems like the boys get invited to plenty of birthday parties during this time as well!
Today, my youngest son is 2 years old. In honor of his special day, I thought I’d share some ideas for inexpensive gifts. There are many ways to give something special, even on a tight budget!
Idea #1: Think Simple!
Gresham (age 4) is giving Owen this huge ball – you know, the ones that come in those cage type things at the store! Owen wants one every time we go by, so it was the perfect idea. He’ll love it, and it only cost us $2.89!
Other simple ideas, especially for young children:
- Bubbles
- A Sand Pail and Shovel
- Balloons
- A coupon for an ice cream date with Mom or Dad
Idea #2: Think Used
Who says gifts have to be new? Although giving something worn or in poor shape would certainly be tacky, there are many ways to save money by giving something used! Last year, I read on facebook that a friend was getting ready to have a garage sale. I knew that this friend would have items in really good shape, so I contacted her and asked if I could pre-shop her sale. She said sure, and I bought Owen a Fisher-Price Little People garage complete with vehicles and figures for $10! We gave it to him for his first birthday. No one noticed that it was not in the original packaging.
Facebook can be a powerful tool, especially if you are looking for something specific. I saw that a friend of mine was looking for a tricycle for her 2-year-old’s birthday. We had a small bike sitting in our garage that no one rides, and we were able to pass that along to our friends!
Used books can also provide great savings. The other night, I took a small box of books to Half Price Books and sold them for $8.50. I was able to use that cash to buy three books for Owen’s birthday – and two of the books were brand new!
Idea #3: Think Homemade!
Aidan (age 7) made these homemade wooden blocks for Owen this year. I can’t wait until his party when he opens them! I think they’ll be a big hit, and we only spent about $5.00 on materials!
Another idea is to make these duct tape no-sew beanbags. Put a few in a sand pail, and you’ll have the perfect gift for a toddler!
What ideas do you have for simple gifts for kids? Do you have any homemade gift ideas to share?
About Sarah Dees
Sarah is a Christian mom of three sons who shares inexpensive ways to keep boys busy at Frugal Fun for Boys. She features activities, homeschooling tips, and thoughts on teaching boys God’s Word. You can connect with her on Twitter and Facebook.
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Mrs H says
Great post, and timely too!
Have a birthday for my almost 12 yo this weekend. dad and i are stumped over what to get for her. Love the “it doesn’t have to be new” idea. Gets me thinking outside the box.
Thinking we’ll let her splurge at a thrift store known for it’s name brands, and take her camping and geocaching (activities she LOVES) . Maybe she’ll want to share her outdoorsy fun with a friend or two… always a blast to slumber party in the mountains.
Sarah Dees says
@Mrs H, Those sound like fun ideas! I hope she has a great birthday!
Sarah Dees´s last blog post ..4 Year Old Dallas Mavericks Fan
'Becca says
Great ideas! My son also clamored for one of those big balls and was so thrilled when he got one.
I posted some stocking stuffer ideas last winter, many of which work for birthdays, too! It can be more fun to open a bunch of small gifts than one big one.
Happy birthday season to all of you!
‘Becca´s last blog post ..Tips for a Tiny Kitchen
Sarah Dees says
@’Becca, Ha ha, that’s great! Part of the fun on birthdays can be getting them something that we usually say “no” to, even if it’s something small and simple!
Sarah Dees´s last blog post ..4 Year Old Dallas Mavericks Fan
Mel @ Trailing After God says
Great ideas! Craig’s List is one of our favorite places to shop for things for the kids; bikes, electronics, video games, etc. Things we wouldn’t normally be able to purchase, we find on Craig’s List. My husband got me a kindle for my bday off CL and I was shocked and I LOVE it but if he hadn’t bought it on CL, he wouldn’t have even be able to consider it. My second son’s bday is Saturday. I found some great gift ideas at the coast that were unique. One has 3 balls and a book of games he can play along with it!
Found you from the Top 25 Faith Blogs and have been voting for you! Good luck!!
Blessings,
Mel
Please feel free to stop by: Trailing After God
Mel @ Trailing After God´s last blog post ..Dear Mel Vol6
Emily says
How about letting Grandparents buy the new stuff? It’s what they live for, anyway, and they have nothing better to do with their retirement fund, lol.
Emily´s last blog post ..Can I Count On State Retirement Plans
Kelly @ The Nourishing Home says
What a great reminder to keep it simple and frugal! Am getting ready to celebrate my youngest son’s birthday and am looking for some frugal birthday party ideas as well. Would love to hear your thoughts! Blessings, Kelly
Debt Free Jen says
What fantastic ideas! I am gathering ideas for how to have a frugal Christmas this year and this really gets me thinking. I love the idea of making blocks. I could even paint them with the leftovers I already have. My kids are 2 (almost 3) and 7 and you are so right that the big ball always gets their attention at the store. If they had their way, they would each get one every time we go. Love your site. You are an inspiration.
God’s blessings to you!