Choosing the perfect gifts for kids can be a daunting task. But it doesn’t have to be. While material gifts are fun to unwrap, here at Kidzta we know that the BEST gifts can often be experiences, not things. This year, create lasting memories by giving the lucky kids in your life an experience they'll never forget.Experiences make us happy It turns out, we can’t buy our way to happiness. At least, not through stuff. Any parent knows that the happiness children feel from receiving material gifts quickly wears off, and even the most anticipated toy eventually loses its shine. Studies have shown that material possessions don't equal happiness and that experiences are much more intrinsically fulfilling than things. For over ten years, Thomas Gilovich, a researcher at Cornell University, has been investigating why experiences make us happier than material possessions. Recently, he published this research in the Journal of Psychological Science with Matthew Killingsworth. The data showed that not only do experiences provide momentary happiness but they also add more to our wellbeing in the long run when compared to material goods. Their research found that people are less satisfied with materialistic possessions over time and more pleased with memories of experiences. Why? We get used to physical things, so even the most mind-blowing material object becomes normal after a while. However, we tend to look back on memories more fondly as time goes on. Gilovich explains: Our experiences are a bigger part of ourselves than our material goods….You can really like your material stuff. You can even think that part of your identity is connected to those things, but nonetheless they remain separate from you. In contrast, your experiences really are part of you. We are the sum total of our experiences. So for your next gifting moment, consider buying experiences, not things. You’ll feel better for it!Experiences take less effort (yes, really!) Time-strapped? No problem! An experience based gift is still an easy, considerate way to show you care — and one that everyone can enjoy. Left it until the last minute to sort out a gift? It takes seconds to organise an experience based gift. No more panicked visits to Kmart to pick out another toy. No more searching for wrapping paper and sticky tape and googling 'how to wrap up a awkwardly shaped gift' YouTube videos. Buying experiences online make life so much easier for gift organisers. And, it’s up to you how the experience plays out – you could organise to take the lucky kid on an unforgettable adventure and lock in a specific date, or keep it open-ended so that kids and families can plan to use the gift when it suits them. Experiences mean more to kids (and us)Every parent wants to give their kid the world. But what if, instead of another toy that will quickly be forgotten, you could give them an experience that would stay with them for a lifetime? Don't get us wrong, we love a good toy (especially when it's educational!). But sometimes the best gifts for kids are ones that money can't buy. The gift of time spent together, exploring new things and making memories is something that your child will cherish long into adulthood. And it's not just about the kids - as parents, we get to enjoy the fun, too! Experience based gifts can be tailored to suit their interests. Whether they’re sporty, outdoorsy or arty, dream up an experience that will be perfect for supporting and encouraging their hobbies and interests. Think about what they’re into – and go from there! Experiences as gifts bring people together What are your favourite memories from childhood? For most people, it's not material possessions that first come to mind (although Tamagotchis were pretty cool!). Rather, it's experiences — cherished family traditions, time spent together, and adventures you shared. Years from now, when the little ones in your life are all grown up, what they'll remember most are the experiences you gave them, not things. In other words, sharing an experience with a child will help bring you closer together. There's no need to spend hours searching for the "perfect" present or buying toys that will end up in a landfill. Give your little ones an experience based gift and make memories instead. Experiences can be mind-blowingly exciting! There's nothing quite like the joy of giving a child an experience they'll never forget. Whether it's their first trip to the zoo or a day spent learning to surf, experiences are gifts that keep on giving. Not only do they create lasting memories, but they also provide opportunities for learning and growth. Best of all, experience based gifts can't be compared to anything else - they're unique and special. It’s personalised to the person you’re gifting it to, and there’s less danger of them receiving a duplicate. Looking forward to the experience also makes up half the fun. There’s nothing like the excited anticipation of an adventure! Experiences don't take up any physical space So many of us are struggling with the clutter in our homes. Toys, toys, toys, everywhere we look! However, there is one type of "thing" that doesn't take up any physical space at all: experiences. Trust us, most parents will breathe a sigh of relief if you gift their child an experience based gift. No one has room for another stuffed toy! Giving experiences is a great way to show kids you care As any parent knows, it can be tough coming up with unique and meaningful gifts year-in, year-out. However, giving the gift of an experience is a great way to show kids that you get them. You understand their hobbies and passions, and you want to encourage those interests. And if you make the effort to take the kid on the experience, it also shows them how much you love hanging out with them! There are endless possibilities for experiences, so everyone can find something they'll love (and can afford) Looking for the perfect gifts for kids can be tough. You want to find something they'll love, but with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. Luckily, there are endless possibilities for experiences, so everyone can find something they'll love. From ziplining and horseback riding to cooking classes and museum visits, there really is something for everyone. Experiences as gifts don't need to cost the earth and can fit in with your budget. Budget-friendly options include: Day at the zoo Horseback riding lesson Cooking class Visit to a farm Concert or play Sports game Rock climbing or trampolining Bowling or skate tickets Mini-golf Group gifts are a great option if you’re wanting to gift a big-ticket experience. With lots of people chipping in, it becomes a much more affordable option than most things you’d buy at a toy store! Experience based group gifts that we love here at Kidzta include: Zoo membership A term of art lessons Museum membership Season pass to a local amusement park So next time you're stuck on what to give your little one, think outside the box - and outside the toy store. It just might be the best present they've ever received!