Giving the Gift of Learning

Well it's come to that time of year when everyone starts to go into panic mode and fret about what they are going to get their kids for Christmas, and what to get for their neices, nephews, cousins, friends' kids and any other children out there who you like to buy a gift for.

So here's a suggestion for you: why not try to put an educational twist on christmas presents this year?

And I know what you're thinking already. Books. Boring old books. But NO, it doesn't have to be books.

It could be board games, card games, computer games, toys, digital technology products, music, vouchers, experiences or trips with you. But whatever it is here are a few tips for you to think about while you are browsing and planning to help you put a fun learning spin on your gift giving:

1. Think about the age of the child, their abilities and what sort of areas of life they are currently learning or which skills? Are they just learning to walk & talk? Perhaps some alphabet blocks in a trolley or a talking teddy? Are they learning the alphabet and numbers, learning to read? There are some fabulous interactive ABC 123 toys in the stores. Are they learning life skills through play (eg money, cooking, building, sharing, competition etc) or learning to play an instrument etc.

2. Think about the benefits of the gift. What can they learn from it, or from playing with or using it? Can they learn obvious skills like reading and maths? But what other skills might they learn? Problem solving. Creativity. Sharing. Logic. Fitness. Spending and Saving. Artistic. Musical. And lots more.

3. Keep the child's personal interests in mind too. Do they love Thomas the Tank? If so, look at Thomas puzzles and games. Are they older and into One Direction? Look at 1D games, magazines and biographies. Do they love computer games? Check out subscriptions to online children's sites such as Moshi Monsters or Literacy Planet where kids are encouraged to complete challenges to earn points and prizes.

4. When you really get stuck, there is always the internet. Visit the Learning that's Fun Pinterest page. We've set up a pin board especially for Christmas. With Christmas related activites, and fun learning gift ideas.

If you have any of your own ideas share them with us on Facebook, we are always looking for new suggestions.

For more ideas like this and more check out Learning thats Fun on Amazon.