Three Healthy Ways to Invest in Your Children
The world is becoming more and more materialistic every day, and it can be far too easy to fall into the trap of giving your children more than they truly need. As a parent, it is common and natural to want to give your child everything you can, but there are better ways to invest in your children than simply buying them more stuff to fill their room. Instead, consider one of these options and spend money on experiences rather than things.
1. Enroll Them in a Sports Camp
If you have a kid who loves being active and playing sports, consider enrolling them in special youth sports camps. They’ll have the opportunity to learn from skilled professionals and develop their abilities, all while improving their focus and self-discipline. There are options for virtually every sport, and you can choose from day camps or sleep-away camps depending on your family’s schedule and needs. While you may not be with them during practices and drills, it will help them see that you care about their interests and want to help them grow.
2. Travel With Them
It’s important to teach kids and teens about how vast the world truly is. Give them opportunities to see historically significant sites and other cultures. While it’s certainly important to get away and have fun as a family, don’t make the entire trip about leisure. Whether you’re visiting a new city or a new country, take time to visit locations that can help open your child’s eyes to the beautiful and complex differences of other people and places. A visit to a new culture can be eye-opening and even life changing for many adolescents.
3. Teach Them to Appreciate the Arts
Not every child is interested in participating in visual or performing arts, but that doesn’t mean you can’t help them learn to appreciate them. Visit local museums, go to a concert featuring classically themed ensembles or buy tickets to a play or musical. While they may not enjoy every performance or exhibit, it will help them learn to think critically about what they’ve experienced while enjoying special time with you. They just may discover a new passion in the process.
Investing in your children can be far more fulfilling than simply spending money on them. For their next birthday, holiday or special occasion, consider a gift that’s outside of the box and share more meaningful experiences with your kids.