When Things Just Won’t Do, Kids Version
By:Nory Simoneaux
Cat is out of the bag, I am all in for the minimalist movement towards gifting experiences as opposed to things. Everywhere you look there are ideas for decluttering your home, organizing, a basket for this and a basket for that. But what if you didn’t have to organize all that junk because it never made its way into your house? The holiday season with a toddler makes this lifestyle choice especially hard, I get it! So I’ve compiled a list of my favorite activity and membership-based gifts in Wilmington. If giving up wrapped holiday gifts gives you anxiety even thinking about it, these experience-based gifts are also great for birthdays or just because. This is the stuff memories are made of!
NATURE CONNECT
Nature Connect is a local nonprofit that hosts outdoor classes for kids of all ages, allowing them to get dirty and learn about plants, but most importantly be outside and cultivate curiosity, compassion, and connection with the natural world. Their approach to making the world a better and more environmentally friendly place is by making sure children have an appreciation for the outdoors as early as possible. Their programs range from pre-walkers with parents to after school for the older friends.
THE LITTLY GYM
The Little Gym encourages kids to have a good time, first and foremost. Their classes are full of silly play and serious moves. Kids are encouraged to be confident and take risks in a wide array of classes for all ages. Their amazing staff of gymnasts take such pride in helping kids reach their goals and perfecting their skills. It really is an amazing gift for any kid to get moving and learn from an early age that physical activity is a fun part of life!
THE DANCE COOPERATIVE
The Dance Cooperative is a nonprofit committed to making dance classes affordable and accessible to all. Their non-competitive approach creates an amazing inclusive setting where kids and adults alike can feel comfortable trying out their moves or perfecting the ones they already have! If the little dancer in your life would love this as a gift, also consider the “sponsor a dancer” option on their page to ensure a dancer who may need a some assistance is able to have the same opportunity!
MEMBERSHIP-BASED
Not really into the schedule/classes side of things? These membership-based opportunities also make great gifts and can be used anytime!
The Children’s Museum of Wilmington
Fit For Fun
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Cameron Art Museum
For this holiday season and every day, just remember to have fun!
Nory Simoneaux is a Broker with Nest Realty Wilmington. With an eye for detail and great passion for customer service, Nory strives to handle each transaction how she would for a close friend or family member.